The Denver Zoo is mourning the loss of one of its largest reptiles, an 18.5-foot-long green anaconda named Jayloe.

The zoo announced the news in a Facebook post on Monday (March 8), revealing that the snake had developed a tumor that was negatively affecting her quality of life.

Unfortunately, the zoo's animal care teams realized they were unable to safely remove the tumor and made the decision to euthanize the 20-year-old reptile.

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"She was an icon of Tropical Discovery, and she will be deeply missed by staff, volunteers, guests, and her many little fans who reminded us that 'snakes are cool,'" read the post.

Although she was one of the largest reptiles at the zoo, Jayloe was not as big as other anacondas, which can grow up to 25 feet long. 

In past Facebook posts, the zoo shared that Jayloe was an excellent swimmer and able to stay submerged underwater for up to 10 minutes at a time.

Despite swimming laps, the reptile didn't get hungry very often. In fact, her caretakers only had to feed her six times a year. 

Last November, the zoo also had to say goodbye to its longest-running resident, a 51-year-old Egyptian vulture named Jones.

Thankfully, Tropical Discovery is home to new life, too. In January, the zoo welcomed a newborn green tree monitor to the habitat.

Animals of the Denver Zoo

 

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