The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance says two endangered Malayan tapirs, JonHi (16) and Rinny (18), died after an accidental overdose of a copper dietary supplement. An internal review by Animal Care and Animal Health teams linked the deaths to misdosing after supplementation to correct low copper levels. The zoo says the incident was isolated, no other animals or people were at risk, and immediate corrective actions and further protocol improvements are underway.
Denver Zoo Confirms Accidental Copper Overdose Killed Two Endangered Malayan Tapirs
Two Malayan tapirs, JonHi, 16, and Rinny, 18, died at the Denver Zoo in Denver, Co.Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance/X
The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance has confirmed that two of its endangered Malayan tapirs, JonHi (16) and Rinny (18), died after an accidental overdose of a copper dietary supplement, following an internal review by the zoo’s Animal Care and Animal Health teams.
Investigation Findings
In a statement posted to X (formerly Twitter) on Jan. 23, the zoo said a thorough internal review determined the deaths were linked to an inadvertent misdosing of copper. The supplement had been added to the tapirs’ care plan after routine testing identified low copper levels, zoo officials said.
Courtesy of Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance.Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance/X
“Both animals were deeply beloved by our staff, volunteers, and guests, and their passing has been profoundly felt throughout our community,” the zoo wrote, adding that the teams followed standard procedures and conducted a full internal review.
Response and Next Steps
Zoo officials said the incident was isolated to JonHi and Rinny and posed no risk to other animals, staff, volunteers or guests. The Denver Zoo confirmed it has taken immediate corrective actions, including a comprehensive review of dietary supplements and updated dosing protocols. The organization said it expects to implement additional process improvements as its broader internal review continues.
Jake Kubié, Director of Public Relations & Brand Communications, described the loss as devastating for the zoo community and especially difficult for the expert teams who cared for the animals daily. The zoo emphasized accountability, transparency and a renewed commitment to animal welfare.
Courtesy of Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance.Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance/X
About Malayan Tapirs
Malayan tapirs are an endangered species native to parts of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand and the island of Sumatra. Recognizable for their distinctive black-and-white coloring, adult tapirs can weigh up to 700 pounds and typically live as long as 30 years.
The Denver Zoo thanked the public for its patience and support as the internal review proceeds and said it is taking steps to prevent similar tragedies going forward.
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