Lottie, one of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s longest residents, died last week, according to a statement from the zoo.
“Anyone who has ever loved an animal knows, we experience many incredible ‘ups’ during our time with them, but we experience extreme lows when that time ends. We’re very sad to announce the loss of Riverbanks’ beloved koala, Lottie.”
The 19-year-old koala, believed to be one of the world’s oldest, was originally given to the South Carolina zoo in 2003 as a gift from Queensland, Australia.
During her time at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, Lottie became a favorite among the staff and visitors.
She was also well known for raising a large family, something that, according to The State, is rare.
In each of the 11 U.S. zoos that have a koala exhibit, an average of seven joeys are born, and in 2014 only two joeys were born.
Lottie was “a perfect breeding female” having given birth to 11 joeys during her life. Her family tree also included “15 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and even 3 great great grandchildren.”
“Lottie will be greatly missed!”
Rest in peace Lottie!