The world's oldest polar bear at the Assiniboine Park Zoo has died.
Debby, 42, was euthanized earlier in the day, "surrounded by her caring zookeepers and veterinarians," City of Winnipeg officials with the Assiniboine Park Zoo announced in a statement Monday evening.
She was euthanized within hours of a vet exam Monday that discovered the ailing bear had suffered multiple organ failure.
Up until Monday, Debby was described as being "alert and active."
Her loss marks the end of an era for the zoo.
"Debby was without a doubt the most famous animal in the Assiniboine Park Zoo's history. Her uncanny ability to strike magnificent and charming poses resulted in her being featured in countless photographs, films and media stories. She will be missed," zoo coordinator Dr. Gordon Glover said in a prepared statement.
A public tribute to Debby's remarkable life is planned for noon to 1 p.m. Saturday at the zoo's Animal Tracks Cafe. Assiniboine Park Zoo Debbie Polar Bear winnipeg manitoba