Euthanized Forestry Farm grizzly had ‘large tumour’ pressing on spine

Koda, a grizzly bear which was euthanized at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo after a recent decline in health, had a large tumour pressing on its upper spine.

The City of Saskatoon said before the 20-year-old grizzly was put down, its veterinary team saw changes in the animal’s behaviour that suggested a spinal injury. A post-mortem examination revealed the presence of the tumour.

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“Koda received daily visual health checks from his animal care team and was monitored regularly by veterinary professionals. His last full veterinary examination under anesthesia was completed in June 2024. At that time, there were no clinical signs of the tumour or a condition affecting his spine,” the city said in a statement.

Koda spent the past 18 years at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo. (City of Saskatoon/Submitted)

“Full examinations for the Zoo’s grizzly bears are typically completed every two to three years, unless an animal’s health or behaviour indicates that an earlier examination is needed. Due to the tumour’s location, it would have required advanced diagnostic imaging, such as a CT scan, to be detected.”

The city said animal care workers responded quickly when they observed changes in the animal’s condition, but noted that the tumour was not surgically treatable.

“While this finding is difficult, it provides further context for Koda’s recent decline in health and confirms that the difficult decision to humanely euthanize him was made with his comfort and quality of life as the priority,” the city said.

Koda was found as an orphaned cub in the Jasper area, the city said, and was taken in at the Edmonton Valley Zoo before it was transferred – along with his brother Mistaya – to Saskatoon.

Grizzly bears Koda and Mistaya at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo. (City of Saskatoon/Submitted)

“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,” the city said.

“Community members are invited to sign a memorial card for Koda, which will be available at the Kinsmen Bear Habitat later this week.”