A male polar bear at the San Diego Zoo has died at age 24, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has announced.
Kalluk recently began to show signs of age-related illness, prompting the zoo’s wildlife care and health experts to conduct a proactive and comprehensive wellness evaluation, according to a statement from the alliance, which operates the zoo.
“After thoroughly reviewing the results and evaluating all options, wildlife experts made the difficult decision to say goodbye,” the statement reporting Kalluk’s death on Thursday said.
Kalluk and his sister, Tatqiq, arrived at the zoo in 2001 as orphaned cubs alongside their companion, Chinook, according to the alliance (see a playful Kalluk below in 2016).
Kalluk has some mad 🏀 skills. (Video by Tabitha Carroll) pic.twitter.com/X7ZBGVaqJE
— San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (@sandiegozoo) December 2, 2016
“Wildlife care specialists will remember him as a calm strength within the trio, with an inquisitive and adventurous nature that left an indelible mark on his care team and the countless guests who were inspired by him,” the statement said.
“Over his 24 years, Kalluk acted as a bridge between worlds, contributing to groundbreaking research on polar bear physiology, sensory perception, and adaptation. These studies have provided global conservationists and scientists with crucial insights into how polar bears navigate a rapidly changing world, helping to ensure a future for his counterparts.”
Male polar bears live an average of 15-18 years in native habitats, according to the alliance.
