On 26th November 2023, Skopje Zoo was struck by a tragic event that reverberated throughout the city and beyond. Riste Trajkovski, a 44-year-old zookeeper renowned for his deep affection for giraffes, tragically passed away. Just hours later, Floppy, the zoo’s last remaining giraffe, also died, marking the end of a poignant and unforgettable chapter for both the zoo’s staff and its visitors.
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Riste, beloved for his unwavering dedication to animals, particularly giraffes, was a figure greatly admired by all who knew him. His exceptional care for exotic creatures inspired not only his colleagues but also the people of Skopje and beyond. Known as the protector of large mammals, his sudden death came as a devastating shock to the local community.
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In an even more heartrending turn of events, Floppy, a ten-year-old giraffe, passed away mere hours after the loss of her keeper. Despite the best efforts of the zoo’s staff to save her, they were unable to prevent her death. The simultaneous loss of both Riste and Floppy cast a shadow of profound sorrow over the zoo, prompting reflection on the striking coincidence of their deaths on the same day. This tragedy has highlighted the deep emotional connection that exists between animal and keeper, leaving a lasting impact on all those who were touched by their lives.
