Africa’s last polar bear dies

The Joburg Zoo has confirmed that Wang the polar bear was put down due to ailing health.

According to the zoo, chief veterinarian Dr Brett Gardener had to put the animal down due to liver failure and chronic arthritis. The much-loved bear, born on 21 December 1985, arrived at the zoo in December 1986 as part of a conservation exchange programme with the zoo in Japan.

City Parks and Joburg Zoo spokesperson Jenny Moodley said, “Wang, in the recent months, was pining the loss of his beloved partner of 27 years GeeBee, that died on 12 January 2014 due to natural causes. His distraught keeper Agnes Maluleke ensured that in the recent weeks, his days were filled with enrichment programmes and special treats, including his own Valentine’s Day celebration this year.”

Since November 2010, Wang – diagnosed with liver ailments and various medical conditions – was responding well to treatment.

The zoo, however, did indicate at that stage that they remained concerned about his health and resolved in 2010 not to replace the aging polar bears.This decision is still effective.

In tribute to Wang, the Joburg Zoo will dedicate the Zoo Trot on 14 September to the rich legacy of Wang – the last polar bear in Joburg and the African continent.

Tributes can be posted to the zoo’s Twitter and Facebook pages.