Zoo mourns the loss of “Baloo” the sun bear

Zoo mourns the loss of “Baloo” the sun bear

The El Paso Zoo is “mourning the loss of a beloved member of our family,” reports Zoo Director Steve Marshall. “Baloo’’ the Zoo’s 16-year-old male Malayan sun bear died early in the evening on June 1. He was one of two sun bears living in the Asia section of the Zoo.

“This is a very sad day for El Paso since Baloo was a very active bear who could often be seen climbing trees and eating special treats that his keepers provided throughout his exhibit where he lived with his companion “Heliana’” said Zoo Education Curator Rick LoBello.

Baloo’s last routine exam in January showed that he was in very good health. About a month ago he showed signs of having problems with his respiratory system. He died of complications of pneumonia despite intensive treatment.

John Kiseda, the Zoo’s Animal Curator stated that “Baloo had a full life here with us, between his sometimes 'spirited' relationship with Heliana his mate and companion, and the staff that cared for him greatly throughout his years here. He was a spunky and feisty bear who always let you know what he thought of your being in his presence, and he certainly had personality that shown through…he'll be missed.”

Baloo Bio

Baloo was born at Miami Metro Zoo on June 8, 1994. He arrived at the El Paso Zoo on September 12, 1995.



El Paso Zoo: Open daily at 9:30 a.m. with ticket booth closing at 4:00 p.m. Admission: $5 (Ages 13-61), $4 (62+/ Active Duty Military with ID), $3 (Ages 3-12), FREE: Ages 2 and under & El Paso Zoological Society.
Events & Info: www.elpasozoo.org · 4001 E. Paisano El Paso, TX 79905-4223 · 915-521-1850