Gracie, a 3- to 4-year-old reticulated giraffe, escaped from Cedar Hollow Ranch in Leakey, Texas, on June 12, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. She was found alive and in good condition on June 26, about 6.4 to 6.5 kilometers (4 miles) from the ranch [1, 2, 3].
The search for Gracie involved helicopter and drone flights, with the final confirmed sighting made by helicopter patrols [1, 2, 3]. Real County Sheriff Nathan Johnson confirmed the safe recovery, describing Gracie as “fat and happy” and said she had a “catch-me-if-you-can” attitude [1, 2, 3]. He added that the giraffe was elusive, adding to the difficulty in locating her.
Vick Jones, involved in the search efforts, said, “She looked good; she’s in good shape” upon spotting her [1]. Gracie weighs about 1,200 pounds and stands around 10 feet tall [3]. She wandered off after reaching tree limbs beyond a gate where she exited the ranch property [1, 3].
A $5,000 reward was posted for information leading to Gracie’s location, prompting widespread public attention [2]. The story quickly went viral on social media, spawning memes and AI-generated images depicting Gracie in playful scenarios [1, 3]. Vick Jones remarked, “I now know what the word viral means” reflecting the public’s fascination [3].
Veterinarians and a specialized team are assembling to safely sedate Gracie and transport her back to Cedar Hollow Ranch using appropriate trailers [1, 2, 3]. Authorities planned these steps once her location was confirmed on June 26 [1, 2, 3].
Earlier reports included a false claim on June 23 that Gracie had been found, which was later retracted, making the June 26 sighting the first verified confirmation [2].
The immediate next step involves the veterinary team capturing and safely returning Gracie to the ranch.
