Missing Texas giraffe found after two-week escape

A 3-year-old giraffe named Gracie was found Friday after escaping her Texas ranch two weeks ago. The 1,200-pound animal was located by helicopter about four miles south of Cedar Hollow Ranch in Leakey, Texas, according to ranch manager Vick Jones.

Jones told FOX 7 that Gracie, who arrived at the ranch in May, was still adjusting to her environment when she wandered off. He said she likely did not intend to leave but was feeding in an unfamiliar area and exited through a gate she had never previously gone through.

Jones posted a missing alert on a local app, which quickly went viral. The post inspired numerous humorous AI images of Gracie in various scenarios, including working as a lifeguard and floating down a river. Jones said the post gained international attention within 24 hours.

Texas authorities contacted a veterinarian after Gracie was found near a pond and creek on private property. She appears to be in good health and was described as gentle, though she would likely need sedation and special transport to return to the ranch.

Sheriff Nathan Johnson said a team is preparing to retrieve Gracie, who has plenty of vegetation to eat nearby. Jones plans to install a fence around her enclosure to prevent future escapes. Texas Hill Country is known for its high population of captive exotic animals, including zebras and monkeys, but this is the first reported giraffe escape in the area.

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