Summary
The UK's oldest polar bear, Victoria, was euthanized due to age-related health issues at the Highland Wildlife Park. She was 28 years old and had been receiving special care for her joint pain and other age-related problems. Victoria was known for being the mother of Hamish, the first polar bear cub born in the UK in 25 years.
Key Facts
- Victoria was the oldest polar bear in the UK, aged 28.
- She was euthanized after vets advised it due to her poor health.
- Victoria gave birth to Hamish in January 2018, the first UK-born polar bear cub in 25 years.
- Hamish was moved to a zoo in Doncaster in 2020.
- Victoria also had a cub named Brodie, who is three years old.
- Victoria received geriatric (old age) care, including pain relief for her joints.
- Her diet was adjusted to mimic the nutrients she would get from her natural diet of seals.
- Victoria's care included insights from other zoos and healthcare for domestic pets.
