'Miscommunication' led to giraffe remains in trash

Albuquerque city officials are blaming miscommunication for the remains of a Rio Grande Zoo giraffe being placed in a trash bin.

A memo Friday from city officials to Mayor Richard Berry said it was not an act of insubordination or disrespect but appears to be the result of unfortunate miscommunication between the zoo manager and an employee.

Berry ordered an investigation after learning about the remains of 16-year-old Kashka. The giraffe was euthanized at the zoo last week after a debilitating leg injury.

Reports indicate the zoo and a landfill are reviewing procedures and will ensure employees are trained. The landfill has a special area where animal remains are buried.

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