PASSING OF AFRICAN ELEPHANT, IRINGA

We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Iringa, one of the beloved elephants that formerly called the Toronto Zoo home.  Iringa, Thika and Toka left the Toronto Zoo for California in October 2013.

Iringa was born in 1969 in Mozambique and arrived at the Toronto Zoo in 1974 at the age of five.  Keepers described her as being a wonderful blend of intelligence and unpredictability. She was always fond of calves and she took Thika, who was born at the Toronto Zoo in 1980, under her wing and enjoyed spending time with the younger elephants.  She was also very smart and her keepers would say "you can see her thinking and processing things." Her frequent attempts to steal the treats bucket would keep the Wildlife Care staff on their toes.

While we are filled with overwhelming sadness we take comfort in the memories this spectacular elephant provided to our staff, volunteers, members and the millions of visitors who were fortunate enough to meet Iringa over the years.
 

 

Toronto Zoo is accredited by CAZA (Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums). Look for this logo whenever you visit a Canadian zoo as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. For more information, visit caza.ca.