The Big Bear Alpine Zoo has bid a somber adieu to two of its most cherished residents, black bears Huckleberry (Huck) and Zuni, leaving both staff and visitors with heavy hearts. Huck, the three-legged wonder who beat the survival odds, was humanely euthanized amid increasing mobility struggles, as the zoo announced. His battle with age and disability ended at the ripe age of 21, surpassing the life expectancy of his wild kin by a significant margin.
Found as a young cub weighing a mere 13 pounds, Huck’s ailing body and spirit were rejuvenated through the diligent care of Big Bear’s devoted team. He should’ve tipped the scales at 50 pounds when he was found injured and parched on Highway 38, but the zoo’s intervention spelled a future the cub might never have envisaged. Despite his disabilities, Huck matured into a hefty 450-pound bear with a fondness for fruit and the occasional fig newton, according to a statement obtained by Big Bear Alpine Zoo.
Zuni, Huck’s fellow inhabitant, also faced his own share of health troubles, leading to his euthanasia. His decline in health was steep, with thyroid complications taking a toll on the beloved bear. According to the zoo, veterinary staff, along with specialists and keepers, concluded that the kindest course of action would be to let Zuni go. The sweet bear that once roamed a watermelon patch in Hinkley before being rescued matured into a thriving testament to the care provided by the sanctuary.
The loss of such iconic animals has sent ripples of sadness across the zoo community. “Huck and Zuni were ambassadors for their species,” the zoo reflected. They embodied the resilience and beauty inherent in wildlife, teaching countless visitors about the majesty and plight of their kind. Their stories—one of a car accident survivor and the other of a watermelon patch wanderer—highlight the precariousness of wildlife survival and the sanctuaries that offer them a second chance.
While the void left by Huck and Zuni is palpable, Big Bear Alpine Zoo honors their memory by showering their remaining bear inhabitants—Holly, Pooh, and Eleanor—with even more affection as they navigate through their own mourning. Huck and Zuni’s legacies continue to inspire, carving a lasting impression on the hearts of those they encounter. As the zoo solemnly stated, smiles will eventually pierce through the somber mood as memories of the beloved bears flourish in reflection of their enchanting lives.