Calgary Zoo Euthanizes Elderly Grizzly Bear After Health Decline

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo has made the difficult decision to euthanize a beloved resident, a 35-year-old grizzly bear named Skoki, following a significant decline in his health. The decision, announced on September 2, 2025, came after careful consideration by the zoo’s Animal Care, Health and Welfare team, who deemed it a “compassionate decision” to alleviate Skoki’s suffering.

Skoki, who had been a part of the Calgary Zoo since 1996, was recognized as one of the oldest grizzly bears under human care. At 35 years old, he had reached a very advanced age for his species, which typically has a lifespan of 20 to 25 years in the wild. Born in Banff National Park, he initially gained attention as “Grizzly Bear #16” before being relocated multiple times by Parks Canada due to his repeated attempts to seek food in populated areas.

Comfort and Care in His Final Years

After his transfers did not yield a solution, Skoki found a permanent home at the Calgary Zoo, where he received extensive care. In recent years, the zoo provided him with supportive measures, including pain management, dietary adjustments, and modifications to his habitat to enhance his comfort during his golden years. The zoo emphasized that Skoki was given the utmost attention to ensure he lived his final years with dignity and care.

The announcement of Skoki’s passing has prompted an outpouring of affection from the zoo community and beyond. The zoo’s social media post stated, “Skoki will be deeply missed, but his impact on wildlife, our community, and everyone who had the privilege to know him will never be forgotten.”

Future Considerations for His Habitat Mate

As the zoo mourns Skoki’s loss, attention is now focused on his habitat mate, Khutzmateen, who is also elderly and receiving comfort care. The zoo is committed to providing the same level of care and support to Khutzmateen, ensuring that he remains comfortable during this challenging time.

In reflecting on the loss, the Calgary Zoo underscored the emotional toll that such decisions take on staff, stating, “One of the hardest parts of our work is saying goodbye. Today, our ACHW team made the compassionate decision to euthanize our ~35-year-old grizzly bear, ‘Skoki’. He will be deeply missed by all who cared for and loved him.”

As the zoo navigates this period of mourning, Skoki’s legacy as a cherished resident and a symbol of connection to wildlife will continue to resonate with visitors and staff alike.