This week, the Calgary Zoo mourns the sudden loss of Baffin, a seven-year-old polar bear.<\/p>\n
Baffin\u2019s unexpected death occurred due to drowning after a severe injury to his trachea during a play session with Siku, an eight-year-old polar bear.<\/p>\n
The zoo explained that this type of \u201crough play\u201d was typical for the pair, and it is believed that Baffin lost consciousness underwater following the injury.<\/p>\n
Baffin, who was in excellent health according to an independent necropsy, showed no signs of heat-related stress.<\/p>\n
Following the incident, Siku is under careful observation by the zoo\u2019s Animal Care, Health & Welfare team.<\/p>\n
Baffin\u2019s journey began when he was rescued as an orphaned cub and taken to the Leatherdale International Polar Bear Conservation Centre at Assiniboine Park Zoo in 2017.<\/p>\n
Later, he and Siku, also a rescue, were moved to Calgary Zoo, where they formed a strong bond.<\/p>\n
Colleen Baird, Director of Animal Care at the zoo, noted their close relationship and the natural behaviors they displayed, including frequent playful interactions.<\/p>\n
Polar bears, listed as vulnerable by the World Wildlife Fund, face significant threats due to Climate change.<\/p>\n
Their reliance on sea ice for survival activities is challenged by the ongoing loss of these habitats, increasing their time spent on land and potential human encounters.<\/p>\n