LEAKEY, TEXAS — A giraffe named Gracie has gone missing from Cedar Hollow Ranch near Leakey, Texas, and the search to bring her home safely is now drawing attention across Real County and beyond. A $5,000 reward is being offered for any information that directly leads to her safe capture and return.
Gracie was last confirmed on a game camera located west of Leakey, and authorities believe she is still somewhere in the surrounding Hill Country terrain. The Real County Sheriff’s Office has been notified and is actively involved in the recovery effort.
Identifying Gracie is possible through one notable physical feature — her rounded ears, which distinguish her from other animals in the area. The rugged landscape west of Leakey, characterized by dense brush and rolling hills, makes a visual search difficult and has complicated efforts to locate her quickly.
Residents and travelers moving through the area west of Leakey are being urged to stay alert and report any sightings without delay. However, officials and ranch representatives are issuing a firm warning to the public — do not attempt to approach or capture Gracie independently. Despite the gentle reputation giraffes carry, they are large and physically powerful animals that can become highly stressed or unpredictable when confronted by unfamiliar people. Keeping a safe distance and calling immediately is the only action members of the public should take.
Anyone who spots Gracie or has relevant information is asked to contact Vick Jones at 830-279-5822 or reach the Real County Sheriff’s Office directly at 830-232-5201.
The $5,000 reward remains available for information that proves instrumental in bringing Gracie back to Cedar Hollow Ranch safely. Ranch representatives are encouraging the wider community to share the alert across social media and local networks, as broader awareness significantly increases the chances of a confirmed sighting in the difficult terrain surrounding Leakey.
The search continues, and every tip matters.