Polar Bear Passes Away Shy Of 20 Years Old: He Was The Best Boy Bear

During the trip to the Louisville Zoo, the care team regularly checked on Payton. Unfortunately, just two hours away from the destination, they found him nonresponsive. They rushed him to a nearby large animal veterinarian, where he was confirmed dead.

A necropsy revealed some evidence of cardiac disease, a tumor on his adrenal gland, and moderate osteoarthritis due to his advanced age. Further testing will be conducted to determine the exact cause of his death.

Payton's journey in zoos began at the Brookfield Zoo, where he was born on November 8, 2003. He had also spent time at the Memphis Zoo before coming to the North Carolina Zoo. 

His keepers remember him fondly, with one polar bear keeper, Melissa Vindigni, saying, "He was the best boy bear, and it was a privilege and honor to have earned his trust."

A full investigation will be carried out to understand the circumstances of Payton's passing, as zoo officials seek to learn more about this tragic event.

The North Carolina Zoo mentioned that they conducted "routine checks" during the drive, but they didn't provide specific details.

In response to the news, WLKY reached out to the Louisville Zoo, which expressed its condolences for the loss of Payton, the polar bear. It extended its sympathies to its colleagues at the North Carolina Zoo and acknowledged the sorrow of losing this beloved animal. The Louisville Zoo's thoughts are with the North Carolina Zoo during this challenging time.

It's worth noting that the Louisville Zoo currently houses only one polar bear, a 12-year-old female named Qannik. She was rescued from Alaska's North Slope, and her presence underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to protect and conserve polar bears around the world.