Privately Owned Giraffe Named Gracie on the Loose in Texas, Has Evaded Capture for Nearly Two Weeks

A search is underway for a missing giraffe named Gracie, who vanished from the Cedar Hollow Ranch in Leakey, Texas, on June 12. The owner of the ranch, Vick Jones, has announced a substantial reward of $5,000 for any information that may lead to her safe capture and return.

Gracie is a reticulated giraffe, measuring between 10 and 11 feet tall and believed to be around three to four years old. She was last spotted on a game camera located west of Leakey, according to various reports, including those from Fox 7 Austin. Since her disappearance, her owner has been actively seeking assistance from the public and local authorities to help locate her.

The Real County Animal Rescue-Shelter has also shared an appeal for information on social media, highlighting Gracie’s distinct rounded ears and her recent sighting in the brushy terrain. A post from the shelter described her physical appearance and urged anyone who might have seen her to step forward.

Located within the Cedar Hollow Ranch, which has housed giraffes for over 30 years, Gracie had been settling in comfortably among two other giraffes, Nubian ibexes, impalas, and an antelope. Jones mentioned to The New York Times that this is not the first time an escape has occurred; in the past, several male giraffes managed to wander off after discovering a gate left ajar. However, a storm at the time curbed their adventure.

After her last sighting, Jones speculated that Gracie is navigating through private ranches surrounding Cedar Hollow Ranch. He estimated that she has travelled only about three miles from the location from which she escaped. This limited distance offers some hope that she can still be found relatively nearby.

Gracie’s disappearance has attracted considerable attention both locally and further afield, raising questions about the safety and security of exotic animals in captivity. Many animal enthusiasts and locals are rallying to help find her, sparking discussions about the importance of ranch safety measures.

Jones has made it clear that he is eager to reunite with Gracie and welcomes any leads. Those who believe they may have sighted Gracie are encouraged to contact him directly at (830) 279-5822 or to reach out to the Real County Sheriff’s Office at (830) 232-5201.

As the search continues, community members are coming together to share information and assist in her potential recovery. Gracie’s story serves as a reminder of the bonds between animals and their caretakers and the lengths some will go to ensure the safety of their beloved creatures.

With each passing day, the hope remains that Gracie will be found safe and sound, allowing her to return home to Cedar Hollow Ranch where she can continue to thrive in the company of her fellow giraffes.