LIMESTONE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Kipekee, a rare spotless giraffe at an East Tennessee zoo, has passed away.

Brights Zoo in Limestone made the announcement, saying Kipekee died Wednesday afternoon.

Kipekee was born solid brown in July 2023. Giraffe experts said at the time that they believed she was the “only solid-colored reticulated giraffe living anywhere on the planet.”

Previous Coverage: Spotless giraffe born at Tennessee zoo believed to be the only one in the world

“Kipekee touched the hearts of millions of people around the world — and she held a very special place in the hearts of those who had the privilege of caring for her every day," the zoo said in a social media post. “She was truly the sweetest soul and deeply loved her keepers.”

Officials with the zoo said they are working

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