Fourth Animal in a Row Dies at Santa Barbara Zoo

Summary:

SANTA BARBARA, CA – The animal care team at a California Central Coast zoo is grappling with yet another loss – the fourth animal death in the past month.

“It’s been a difficult few weeks for us here at the zoo,” the Santa Barbara Zoo shared on Instagram Monday in announcing the death of Poppy, an 8-year-old capybara. The zoo’s only other capybara is also facing a serious health challenge.

“Poppy was euthanized on Friday after specialist veterinarians discovered an inoperable mass in her throat, making it difficult for her to breathe or eat,” the zoo said. “Poppy’s age was considered geriatric for a capybara, but her sudden decline in health and ultimate passing is no less painful a loss for our Zoo family and community.”

Zoo officials said Poppy underwent a series of exams and scans, including a CT scan, to determine if the mass could be treated or removed. They ultimately determined it was too extensive.

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