Milwaukee County Zoo euthanizes 45-year-old elephant

MILWAUKEE (NBC, KYMA) - The Milwaukee County Zoo says it had to put down a popular elephant for health reasons.

Brittany the elephant was 45-years-old.

The average elephant life expectancy is about 39 years, so she lived longer than most, but the decision was made to ensure the elephant did not struggle.

"It's very similar to a hospice situation. She had lost a considerable amount of weight, her blood values. It was really a matter of time," said Amos Morris, Executive Director of the Milwaukee County Zoo.

Zoo officials say the staff that cared for her every day is feeling the loss.

In a post to social media Monday, the zoo says, "Brittany's legacy lives on in the hearts of everyone she touched. Thank you for your kind words and memories—your support means the world to our care team and community."