COCHRANE - One of three polar bears at the Cochrane habitat has died.
Inukshuk, who was nearly 22, was euthanized Monday morning (Aug. 26) after being diagnosed with kidney disease, the Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat has announced.
“Following extensive collaboration between a diverse group of veterinary professionals, it was discovered Inukshuk had developed kidney disease,” the habitat wrote in a statement Monday afternoon.
“Both the veterinary team and our dedicated animal care team went above and beyond to provide him treatment, but after all options were exhausted, we made the difficult decision to compassionately euthanize him this morning.”
Inukshuk, rescued from the coast of Hudson Bay at three months old, had a long history at various institutions, including the Toronto Zoo and Zoo Sauvage, before arriving at the Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat.
"We have had the pleasure of watching him thrive and his world grow after being introduced to his first male companion, Henry, in 2018. While together, they enjoyed nothing more than swimming together in the lake, eating cattails along the bank and taking and afternoon nap in the sun,” the habitat wrote.
In addition to his role as a resident bear, Inukshuk participated in numerous research projects that contributed to the understanding of polar bear care.
SEE: Cochrane polar bears helping test tracking devices
“He will be remembered for his iconic nose scrunch, toe-grabs while rolling around and his love of playing the 'still hunting' game with his animal care team,” the habitat wrote.
“The loss of Inukshuk means the loss of a family member for our team. We recognize the impact he has had on the lives of all who have met him, but we ask for your understanding and respect as we navigate our grief.”
The habitat is closed until Friday (Aug. 30) to allow the team to focus on the care of Inukshuk’s companions, Henry and Ganuk, and to manage their own grief.
