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toronto zoo mourning loss of spotted hyena moja, american moose lily

the toronto zoo is mourning the deaths of two of its animals.

last week, the zoo lost 25-year-old spotted hyena moja and 11-year-old american moose lily.

“a charismatic spotted hyena, every day with moja was a gift. on christmas day, he became lethargic and weak. there was a rapid decline in his condition and an emergency procedure was performed. it was determined that euthanasia was warranted,” the zoo said in a news release.

the typical lifespan for a spotted hyena can be up to 25 years.

 the toronto zoo announced the death of american moose lily, who they said had been under observation since dec. 23, 2024.
the toronto zoo announced the death of american moose lily, who they said had been under observation since dec. 23, 2024. toronto zoo / x

lily was an older moose and had been under observation since dec. 23, when staff saw changes in her behaviour.

“she was reluctant to move, had an abnormal gait and general malaise. after performing a thorough examination, blood work and (an) ultrasound the decision was made to humanely euthanize lily. lily was the last moose to call your toronto zoo home,” the zoo said.

the zoo said that losing moja and lily is difficult, but they are thankful for their contribution and impact they have made.

“as we mark the end of our 50th anniversary year, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment our team makes to the animals in our care, especially the geriatric ones, during their lifetimes with us,” the zoo said.

“it is a privilege to care for the animals that call the toronto zoo home and we are committed to their overall well-being throughout their entire lives.”

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kevin connor
kevin connor

kevin connor is a general assignment reporter with the toronto sun and has been with the company for decades. he graduated from the journalism course at humber college and was an intern at the toronto sun while in school. connor started working at the kenora daily miner and news after graduating. connor then worked at the winnipeg sun and the edmonton sun before coming back to the toronto sun.

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