Remembering ‘Makira’

It is with heavy hearts that we share that earlier this month we said goodbye to one of our most colourful residents, female panther chameleon, ‘Makira’.

Female panther chameleons typically live around 3.5 years in human care, so at three years old, Makira was considered senior for her species. Several months ago, she began displaying some age-related health issues, including abnormally high blood calcium levels, swollen and darkened eyes, and reduced activity and appetite. Our dedicated Animal Care, Health & Welfare team supported her through these health challenges with treatments and monitoring. When she no longer responded to the treatments and her quality of life was noticeably in decline, our Animal Care, Health & Welfare team made the decision that euthanasia was the most compassionate course of action for her.

Makira joined us in 2022 when she was less than six months old. Throughout her time with us, she became a favourite stop for zoo visitors, staff, and volunteers alike to try to spot her amongst the foliage in her habitat. Please keep her dedicated African Rainforest care team in your thoughts during this difficult time.