Rosamond Gifford Zoo Mourns the Loss of Beloved Bactrian Camel, George

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is heartbroken to announce the passing of George, a domestic Bactrian camel and a cherished member of the zoo family. George passed away following complications from dental surgery at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals.

Earlier this month, George was transported to Cornell to address a severe, persistent tooth infection. While the surgical team successfully addressed the dental issue, George experienced unexpected complications during recovery. Despite the world-class veterinary intervention at Cornell and the exhaustive efforts of his dedicated care team, George was unable to overcome these systemic challenges.

Members of the zoo’s animal care team operated on 12-hour shifts, traveling to Ithaca to provide 24/7 bedside support alongside the veterinary experts at Cornell. His dedicated keepers were by his side when he passed.

“Every medical procedure involving anesthesia carries a degree of risk, but this outcome was both unexpected and devastating,” said Dan Meates, Zoo Director. “The level of dedication shown by his keepers, who stayed with him around the clock, speaks to the profound bond they shared.”

Since his arrival with older brother Patrick in 2018, George served as a premier ambassador for his species. He was a staple of the zoo’s education programs, a frequent "guest" at weddings, and a favorite for thousands of families during the zoo’s seasonal public camel feedings.

While domestic Bactrian camels (Camelus bactrianus) are common in North American zoos, they serve as a critical link to their wild counterparts. The wild Bactrian camel (Camelus ferus) is a genetically distinct species and is currently the eighth most endangered large mammal in the world, with fewer than 1,000 individuals remaining in their native range. George played a vital role in educating the Syracuse community about the fragility of these desert giants and the importance of global conservation efforts.

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo thanks the community for their support during this difficult time.