14 DAY TRIAL // Just a couple of days ago, the world's oldest hippo passed away in captivity at the Mesker Park Zoo, Evansville, Indiana.
The animal was 61 years old and lived much longer than other members of its species usually do. This allowed it to witness as much as 15 presidential elections, and give birth to 8 baby hippos.
One of Donna's caretakers explains how, “She was loved by so many people. We would usually have a birthday party for her in the summer because she became quite well-known.”
Apparently, the hippo did not die of natural causes, but had to be put to sleep by zoo employees as a result of the fact that its health was steadily declining, thus negatively impacting on its quality of life.
Saddened by the decision they had to make, Donna's caretakers told the press that the animal will be “greatly missed.”