Gracie, a 10-foot-tall giraffe that went missing for two weeks after wandering off a private ranch in Texas, has been found safe and in good health. The three-year-old giraffe was located on Friday, just four miles south of her enclosure, following an aerial search by helicopter in the Texas Hill Country, according to Real County Sheriff Nathan Johnson.
How Gracie Was Found
The search involved a helicopter and a team assembled by owner Vick Jones, who contacted a veterinarian to ensure the animal's safe return. Gracie was spotted near a pond with ample vegetation, which had sustained her during her absence. Sheriff Johnson confirmed the sighting and the subsequent rescue operation.
Jones stated, "She's in good shape. She's standing there, swishing her tail." The giraffe, weighing at least 1,200 pounds, appeared well-nourished and hydrated. Vets later sedated her to transport her back to the ranch safely.
Owner's Account of the Escape
Jones believes Gracie did not intend to leave the ranch. She had been exploring a rocky area to feed on trees growing out of the rocks and had always returned previously. "The area wasn't fenced because giraffes had not been going there until Gracie did," Jones explained. He speculated that she wandered into the rocky area, fed, and came down on the wrong side of the gate, then found it easier to continue walking than to turn back.
Gracie arrived at the ranch in May and had been acclimating to her new environment. Despite her size, Jones assured that she posed no threat to humans. "If you move toward her, she's taking off," he said, emphasizing her skittish nature.
Preventive Measures
To prevent a recurrence, Jones plans to install fencing in the area where Gracie escaped. The successful rescue has brought relief to the owner and the community, with Gracie now safely back in her enclosure.
