Two baby giraffes were found safe after disappearing from a Virginia zoo more than a year ago, according to the Virginia Office of the Attorney General.
What happened
The giraffe calves went missing from Natural Bridge Zoo in 2025 during an investigation into allegations of animal abuse. The Office of the Attorney General of Virginia located the animals but did not disclose specifics about their recovery site. The giraffes are now receiving care at a specialized facility, officials confirmed.
Prior to their disappearance, state officials were working to relocate four giraffes from the zoo following the seizure of approximately 100 animals. State regulators indicated that two of the giraffes were pregnant and gave birth shortly before the investigation began but the births were not reported as required by a court order.
Gretchen Mogensen, co-owner of Natural Bridge Zoo, was sentenced to 100 days in jail for refusing to provide details about the giraffes’ whereabouts. A search for the lost calves included public appeals, with actress Alicia Silverstone offering a $50,000 reward for information.
Why it matters
In response to the giraffes’ recovery, the attorney general’s office emphasized its commitment to public safety and accountability. The case reflects ongoing concerns surrounding animal welfare and proper care standards at zoos. The implications for the co-owners of the zoo could lead to significant legal consequences amid ongoing investigations.
Background
On May 1, 2023, the attorney general’s animal law unit initiated an investigation into Natural Bridge Zoo, following multiple complaints about the treatment of animals. Authorities seized over 100 animals, including both living and deceased specimens, uncovering inadequate living conditions.
By March 2025, reports surfaced of the missing giraffes, leading to increased scrutiny of the zoo’s operations. Investigators noted that the zoo had failed to report critical information about the animals.
What’s next
The four co-owners of the zoo face a total of 55 misdemeanor animal cruelty charges, with court proceedings expected to begin in early July 2026. Further details regarding the ongoing criminal investigation have not yet been released.
