Beloved Camel Dies At Detroit Zoo

ROYAL OAK, MI — A beloved camel at the Detroit Zoo has died after batting an illness, according to the zoo.

Tula, a 6-year-old Bactrian camel who lived her entire life at the Detroit Zoo, suffered from a degenerative ligament condition that affected her comfort and mobility, zoo officials said.

Staff provided pain management, protective wraps and laser therapy for Tula in the hopes to give her the best quality of life. She initially responded well to the treatment, but her condition declined in recent weeks, leading the zoo to "compassionately euthanize her."

"Tula was deeply loved by those who cared for her and by many guests who visited her over the years. She will be profoundly missed," the zoo said in a social media post. "Please keep the animal care staff in your thoughts as they continue supporting the rest of the camel herd with the same dedication and compassion."

Tula was born at the Detroit Zoo in 2019 and was beloved by visitors and staff. Zoo officials said she was named after a river in Mongolia.

"Known for her bold personality and sharp intelligence, Tula was a favorite among her care team, who loved working with her — especially during care-based training sessions," the zoo said in a social media post.

Tula's sister, Rusi, and their mother, Suren, still live at the zoo.

Bactrian camels are mammals known for their two distinctive humps, which they use to store fat. They typically stand at 7 feet tall and weigh over 2,000 pounds. They usually live for roughly 17 years.