The Toronto Zoo is mourning the loss of another resident, Trilly the moose.
Trilly, one of two moose living at the zoo, died on Tuesday, she was 11 years old.
Toronto Zoo confirmed in a Facebook post on Sunday that Trilly had been euthanized after months of health complications.
“She had known arthritic changes in multiple limbs. Trilly was quite thin despite extensive efforts to increase her feed intake,” the zoo said.
Trilly surpassed the average moose life expectancy, but her condition had become too difficult to manage, the zoo explained.
A post mortem revealed malabsorption as the likely cause of Trilly’s deterioration but further investigations will provide a final diagnosis, according to the zoo.
Trilly was also suffering from a ruptured tendon, joint instability, and a hoof abscess.
The zoo said Trilly always kept staff on their toes and was fiercely protective of her little sister Lily. It also acknowledged that the loss of an animal in such a manner can be difficult for the community, but said it is committed to “being open and transparent about all aspects of animal care, including births and deaths.”
People have been responding to the news of Trilly’s passing and thanking staff for their efforts.
“We appreciate your transparency and the details shared, definitely makes it slightly easier to accept their passing. Sincere condolences to everyone involved at the Zoo. RIP Trilly,” one Facebook user wrote.
“So sorry for the loss of your beloved moose, Trilly. Many years ago when I worked at the Toronto Zoo as a tour guide driving the monorail train, my favourite part of the ride was driving past the moose enclosure. Sometimes we were blessed to get to see these beautiful, majestic animals. RIP Trilly,” another user said.
“Geriatric care of any animal carries its own very unique and significant challenges. Thank you for providing such excellent, compassionate care right to the end,” someone else commented.
This is the third death of a zoo resident in under a month.
Matu, a two-year-old Masai giraffe, died under anesthesia during a castration procedure on July 25.
A preliminary pathology report revealed stomach content in Matu’s lungs, “a finding that explains the respiratory issues and cardiac arrest that occurred,” the zoo said in a statement.
The zoo also announced the death of a red panda cub, who was less than six weeks old, earlier this month.
The smallest of two new-born cubs was taken to intensive care after vets observed he was not drinking well, had a reduced appetite and felt cold to the touch, but sadly passed away.
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Though mortality rates are high in the first year of a panda cub’s life, the zoo said it was “truly saddened by this loss,” and continues to monitor the wellbeing of the surviving cub.
The cub’s mother, Sakura, is also being carefully monitored after experiencing seizures and other health complications.
The Toronto Zoo is currently home to over 3,000 individual animals and 250 species.
