Today marks a remarkably sad day for the Oklahoma City Zoo. The Zoo's oldest Asian Elephant, Rex, was unfortunately humanely put to sleep today because of health issues that were related to his age. Rex played a major role in keeping the Asian Elephant population going at the Oklahoma City Zoo and even made a name for himself outside of Oklahoma during his time here.

Rex's Declining Heath Due To His Age Contributed To The Heartbreaking Decision

Rex
Photo provided by OKC Zoo
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According to the OKC Zoo Press Release, Rex had been experiencing some issues recently that caretakers and veterinarians were playing close attention to. Candice Rennels, the Director of Public Relations for the OKC Zoo, told us:

"More recently caretakers noted a decline in Rex’s physical condition including significant reduction in his mobility, increased stiffness and discomfort in his legs and feet, and difficulty in traversing some of the more uneven terrain in his habitat."

After the caretakers and the Zoo's veterinary teams realized that Rex's condition was getting worse and his quality of life was worsening past the point of medical treatment, they decided that it was best to humanely euthanize him. "Rex peacefully passed away inside the Zoo’s elephant barn at Sanctuary Asia surrounded by his caretakers," according to the Press Release. 

Rex's Life and Legacy At The Oklahoma City Zoo

Rex
Photo provided by OKC Zoo
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Rex lived to the ripe old age of 57 years old, one of the oldest male elephants to have lived in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) population. He was brought to the Oklahoma City Zoo from Canada to kick start the Asian Elephant Breeding Program and had fathered several calves over the years, including several visitors can see at the zoo now. 

"“Rex’s life and continuing legacy will not be forgotten. He was the cornerstone of the Oklahoma City Zoo’s elephant breeding program and the proud father of our three young females,” said Rachel Boyd, OKC Zoo’s elephant curator.

His daughters, Achara, Kairavi, and Rama are still thriving in Oklahoma City and Achara is even expecting a calf of her own in July 2025. 

The breeding program here in Oklahoma is just one of the several ways that our state has helped work to get Asian Elephants off of the Endangered Species list.

Rex's Legacy Beyond Oklahoma

Rex and calf
Photo provided by OKC Zoo
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Rex hadn't just help produce calves in Oklahoma, but over the continent, as well. "“Rex’s influence not only shaped the future of the Zoo’s herd but also our continued commitment to conservation and animal care,” added Boyd.

@okczoo Rama hopes you have a truly weird and ✨unhinged✨ day #okczoo #wildlife #asianelephants #babyrama #babyelephant #conservation ♬ original sound - Grumpygimli

“In North America, his enduring legacy lives on through his seven living calves and five living grand-calves, including three here at the Zoo. Rex was truly a remarkable presence, and I feel honored to have cared for him in the final years of his life.”

@okczoo 🎶On the fourth day of Enrich-mas our elephat herd all got…🎶 A winter wonderland full of their favorite treats and new things to interact with! #okczoo #asianelephant #enrichment #holidays #elephant ♬ It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year - Andy Williams

Rex will always be remembered at the Oklahoma City zoo as the bachelor who loved smashing pumpkins and watermelons, swimming in the habitat pools and enjoying life all by himself. Even if you don't see his familiar freckle-dotted forehead and impressive tusks, you can see his likeness is his daughters at the zoo.

Visitors who want to show their love for Rex are encouraged to send photos and testimonies on Oklahoma City Zoo's social media channels.

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