Sri Lanka, Aug. 19 -- An elderly female giraffe at the Dehiwala National Zoological Gardens died last night, the Department of National Zoological Gardens said.

The giraffe was approaching 30 years of age, which officials described as a remarkably long lifespan. While giraffes in the wild generally have shorter lifespans, animals under professional care can live longer due to access to consistent nutrition, veterinary attention and protection from threats.

Officials said the giraffe had not suffered from any previously reported critical illness. It was reported that the animal's death was likely due to natural causes associated with advanced age. A post-mortem examination is scheduled to be conducted today, August 19, to determine the ...