NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) – Nikki, a cougar who made her home at the Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford, has died.
She is 14 years old.
Nikki was euthanized on February 22; The zoo said in a statement that his death followed “an era of immediate decline due to end-stage chronic kidney disease. “
The zoo said her appetite had decreased and she was lethargic.
“Once he started refusing to eat, medicine was no longer an option,” the zoo said. “The decision made to humanely sacrifice Nikki was surrounded by those she consciously decided to be part of her entourage. “
“These decisions are difficult,” said Gary Lunsford, director of Zoological Services. “The team is doing everything they can to provide the most productive life for our resident animals, and it’s not easy to let them go. “
Katie Harding, of the zoo’s animal care staff, spent thirteen years running with Nikki, described as “strong-willed and stubborn” by team members, according to the zoo.
“You knew when she trusted you,” Harding said. It wasn’t easy, but when you were handed over there, you knew you were lucky to be part of their circle. “
The Buttonwood Park Zoo still has Nikki’s partner, Riley, a male cougar who is also 14 and exhibits symptoms of kidney disease, the zoo said. He is under treatment and his condition will be closely monitored over the coming weeks and months.
Gallery Credit: Nicole Caldwell
Nikki, a mountain lion who built her home at the Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford, died.
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NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — Nikki, a mountain lion who built her home at the Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford, has died.
She is 14 years old.
Nikki was euthanized on February 22; The zoo said in a statement that his death followed “an era of immediate decline due to end-stage chronic kidney disease. “
The zoo said her appetite had decreased and she was lethargic.
“Once he started refusing to eat, medicine was no longer an option,” the zoo said. “The decision made to humanely sacrifice Nikki was surrounded by those she consciously decided to be part of her entourage. “
“These decisions are difficult,” said Gary Lunsford, director of Zoological Services. “The team is doing everything they can to provide the most productive life for our resident animals, and it’s not easy to let them go. “
Katie Harding, of the zoo’s animal care staff, spent thirteen years running with Nikki, described as “strong-willed and stubborn” by team members, according to the zoo.
“You knew when she trusted you,” Harding said. It wasn’t easy, but when you were handed over there, you knew you were lucky to be part of their circle. “
The Buttonwood Park Zoo still has Nikki’s partner, Riley, a male cougar who is also 14 and exhibits symptoms of kidney disease, the zoo said. He is under treatment and his condition will be closely monitored over the coming weeks and months.