The David Traylor Zoo is mourning the loss of its beloved Bison Bill.
The zoo announced Saturday afternoon that Bill passed away at the age of 22. The zoo’s veterinarian conducted an examination following Bill’s passing and determined his passing was due to age-related health issues.
With the average lifespan of a bison being between 15-20 years old, the zoo says Bill was considered geriatric at the time of his passing.
Bill was born in April of 2003 and spent the entirety of his life at the zoo. A news release from the zoo says “Over the years, he became a familiar and beloved presence for visitors and staff alike.”
The zoo was closed to the public Saturday as staff removed Bill from hospital exhibit. The zoo will return to normal hours starting at 10 am Sunday to allow time for staff and the zoo’s remaining two Bison, Beulah and Ted, to adjust to “the loss of the herd’s dominant male.”
Noon Saturday: David Traylor Zoo closed until further notice following unspecified ‘animal-related matter’ Saturday
The David Traylor Zoo is closed until further notice.
The zoo posted on its official Facebook page late Saturday morning that it is closed due to an “animal-related matter that requires our full attention and care.” KVOE News reached out to Zoo Director Brenda Young, who was unable to provide additional details except to say that no animals escaped and no personnel have been injured.
Additional details are expected later in the day. KVOE News will have updates as they are made available.
