Three Long-Lived Zoo Bears Die in US, Thailand

Three zoos have reported the deaths of longtime black bear residents. In California, Merced Applegate Zoo humanely euthanized 23-year-old Windfall after declining health and mobility; rescued from illegal pet ownership, she had lived at the zoo since 2005 and was closely bonded with fellow bear Missy, who will continue receiving special care. The zoo plans to honor Windfall by introducing a black bear mascot, while Oklahoma City Zoo also euthanized 21-year-old Maynard because of advanced arthritis and age-related issues. In Thailand, Pata Zoo’s Dam Ngao, an Asiatic black bear reported to be over 40, died after his health deteriorated; the zoo said he was among the country’s longest-living bears of his species.