Milwaukee County Zoo mourns death of 45-year-old elephant Brittany

The zoo announced the African savanna elephant was euthanized due to declining health.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:26pm

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An abstract, impressionistic image of an elephant in a natural setting, with soft, blurred edges and a warm, earthy color palette, conveying a sense of tranquility and loss.

The Milwaukee County Zoo mourns the loss of Brittany, a beloved 45-year-old African savanna elephant whose compassionate care and gentle spirit touched all who knew her.Today in Milwaukee

The Milwaukee County Zoo announced the passing of Brittany, a 45-year-old African savanna elephant who had been at the zoo since 2001. Zoo officials said the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize Brittany after her health had continued to decline in recent months, despite efforts by the animal care teams and veterinary staff to treat her symptoms.

Why it matters

Elephants are intelligent, social animals, and the loss of Brittany is deeply felt by the zoo community. Her passing highlights the challenges zoos face in caring for aging and ill animals, and the importance of prioritizing animal welfare when making end-of-life decisions.

The details

Brittany was described as a patient and tolerant elephant who enjoyed her daily routine and working with zookeepers. In her final months, the zoo said Brittany would seek comfort and reassurance from her caretakers as her health deteriorated. The University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine will perform a necropsy on Brittany, with results expected to take several months.

Brittany arrived at the Milwaukee County Zoo in 2001.
Brittany was euthanized on Friday, April 10, 2026.

The players