Khutzy, 35-year-old grizzly bear, to be euthanized at Calgary zoo

By: Fatima Raza, The Canadian Press Posted:

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The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is set to euthanize what it calls a "very geriatric" grizzly bear today.

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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 30/09/2025 (341 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is set to euthanize what it calls a “very geriatric” grizzly bear today.

Animal care specialist Nicole Yeoman says Khutzeymateen, nicknamed Khutzy, is being euthanized after a decline in her health.

Yeoman says that since Khutzy came out of hibernation, the zoo has been concerned about stiffness caused by her arthritis and old age.

Khutzeymateen, nicknamed Khutzy, was born at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo 35 years ago. She can be seen in this undated handout photo as a cub in her habitat at the zoo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout - The Calgary Zoo (Mandatory Credit)
Khutzeymateen, nicknamed Khutzy, was born at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo 35 years ago. She can be seen in this undated handout photo as a cub in her habitat at the zoo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout - The Calgary Zoo (Mandatory Credit)

She says Khutzy, who was born at the zoo, has a strong personality and has been key in teaching visitors about grizzlies and the importance of coexisting safely with wildlife.

The zoo announced its decision last week, saying that while supportive care has kept the bear comfortable, it may soon no longer be enough.

Khutzy’s 35-year-old mate, Skoki, was euthanized earlier this month.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 30, 2025.

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Khutzeymateen, nicknamed Khutzy, was born at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo 35 years ago. She can be seen in this undated handout photo as a cub in her habitat at the zoo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout - The Calgary Zoo (Mandatory Credit)

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The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is set to euthanize what it calls a "very geriatric" grizzly bear today.

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Yeoman says that since Khutzy came out of hibernation, the zoo has been concerned about stiffness caused by her arthritis and old age.

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