Zoo Announces Passing of Muriel, the Meerkat
January 14, 2010
The Edmonton Valley Zoo is saddened to announce the passing of Muriel, a beloved 14-year-old meerkat who lived at the Zoo for many years.
The average lifespan of a meerkat is 10-12 years in zoos. With her advancing age, Muriel had become unable to groom herself, was not eating and could not move well or position herself comfortably without assistance. As there was no treatment available to significantly improve Muriel’s condition, the Zoo veterinarian, in consultation with animal care staff, made the decision to euthanize Muriel on January 6.
“Muriel is very much missed,” said Dean Teichel, Edmonton Valley Zoo Operations Supervisor. “Despite her ailments, Muriel was a very social animal and was loved by both staff and visitors.”
For her own safety, Muriel was removed from her colony 10 years ago when the other meerkats were observed to be mistreating her. Since that time, Muriel has lived in the Zoo’s administration building.
Edmontonians who want to honour Muriel are encouraged to make a donation to the Zoo’s Makira Conservation Fund c/o Edmonton Valley Zoo, P.O. Box 2359, Edmonton, T5J 2R7.
For more information:
Dean Treichel
Edmonton Valley Zoo
| Title | Operations Supervisor |
|---|---|
| Telephone | 780-496-6941 |
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