TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei Zoo's 26-year-old dromedary camel, Yu Yeh (玉葉), passed away on Wednesday (July 3). Yu Yeh, one of the early members of the zoo's new location, had been struggling with health issues for the past two years, including difficulty walking, whitening facial hair, and poor appetite.
Zookeepers laid straw and bedding in her living area to ensure Yu Yeh's comfort and safety. They also touched her hump and legs daily to encourage her to stand, which helped maintain her circulation and flexibility.
The veterinary team regularly treated her, using laser therapy to alleviate discomfort and conducting blood tests to monitor her health. Veterinarians used infrared thermal cameras and X-rays to check Yu Yeh's condition. She had previously experienced anemia and received iron supplements to aid her recovery.
Taipei Zoo, which relocated to its current Wenshan site over 37 years ago, has seen many of its early residents age into their final life stages.
The zoo stated that it will adjust care plans according to the animals' aging needs, including senior health check-ups, environmental adjustments, dietary changes, and the provision of maintenance medications. This approach aims to ensure the well-being of the zoo's elderly residents.
