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Story summary
- The Bronx Zoo euthanized Happy, a 55-year-old Asian elephant, on May 26, 2026.
- Veterinarians cited kidney or liver dysfunction, arthritis and an inoperable uterine tumor, prompting staff to give hospice care with medication, nutrition and hydration.
- Happy arrived in 1977 as a one-year-old from Asia and lived 50 years, above the U.S. median of 45.
- A 2018 lawsuit to grant Happy legal personhood was rejected 5-2, leaving Patty healthy at 57.
