41-year-old rhinoceros dies at the Henry Vilas Zoo - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

41-year-old rhinoceros dies at the Henry Vilas Zoo

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By Katie Priebe - bio | email
MADISON (WKOW) -- One of the oldest animals at the Henry Vilas Zoo has died.

The rhinoceros named Gracie was 41 years old.
 
"For most of my life, Gracie and her mate George have been iconic animals at Henry Vilas Zoo," said Joe Parisi, Dane County Executive. "She will be dearly missed by my family and the thousands of other families that have grown up along with her over the last four decades."
 
Gracie was diagnosed with a uterine tumor in 2001. This week, her health took a turn for the worse. Animal care staff decided to euthanize Gracie because of her deteriorating health.
 
Grace arrived at the zoo in 1976.
 
"Gracie is one of those special animals at our zoo that was loved by everyone who worked with her, and in turn, she was deeply bonded with the zoo staff, often coming up to get treats or to interact with us," said Henry Vilas Zoo Director Ronda Schwetz. "Gracie was a big part of the zoo's history and was visited by generations of children and families."
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