Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo mourns the loss of Koda the grizzly bear

The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo is deeply saddened to announce that Koda, one of the Zoo’s most recognized and beloved animals, was humanely euthanized following a recent decline in his health.

Koda was monitored daily by his dedicated animal care team as part of the Zoo’s routine animal welfare practices. When staff recently observed a decline in his health, they continued to monitor his condition, comfort and quality of life closely. Following consultation and careful consideration, the decision was made to humanely euthanize Koda.

“This was an exceptionally difficult decision for the entire animal care team,” said Jeff Mitchell, Zoo Manager. “Koda was deeply cared for by the staff who worked with him every day. Our priority was to make the most compassionate decision for him, guided by his welfare and quality of life.”

Koda’s journey began as an orphaned cub from the Jasper area. He was rescued and nurtured by zookeepers at the Edmonton Valley Zoo before being paired with Mistaya at the Calgary Zoo. The pair were later transferred to the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo, where Koda spent the past 18 years as a well-known and valued member of the Zoo family.

At the Saskatoon Zoo, Koda was supported by animal care specialists who observed him closely each day and tailored his care, training and enrichment to his individual needs. Through positive-reinforcement training, enrichment activities and daily monitoring, staff supported Koda’s physical and mental well-being throughout his life.

For many visitors and staff, Koda will be remembered for the joyful moments he shared with his brother, Mistaya, from playful wrestling and splashing in the pool to foraging together in their habitat. The Zoo’s celebration of the bears’ 20th birthday last year was a special opportunity to recognize Koda and the place he held in the hearts of staff and visitors.

Animal care specialists will also remember Koda’s enthusiasm for training sessions and his careful habit of checking Mistaya’s feeding area after meals, just in case his brother had left something behind.

The Zoo recognizes the close bond Koda and Mistaya shared. Animal care specialists will continue to monitor Mistaya closely, paying attention to his behaviour, activity and overall well-being. His daily care and enrichment plan will be adapted as needed to support him as he adjusts to this transition.

Throughout his life, Koda was an important ambassador for his species, helping visitors connect with the importance of wildlife conservation, habitat protection and responsible human-wildlife interactions.

Koda’s passing will be felt by visitors, staff and community members who came to know him over the years. The Zoo extends its appreciation to the animal care professionals who provided Koda with knowledgeable, compassionate and dedicated care throughout his life.

Community members are invited to sign a memorial card for Koda, which will be available at the Kinsmen Bear Habitat later this week. The card will provide an opportunity for visitors to share their memories and say goodbye to a bear who was an important part of the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo family for 18 years.

Thank you, Koda, for the memories. You will be missed.