The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo has confirmed the death of Koda, a grizzly bear who lived at the site for nearly 18 years. Zoo officials said Koda was humanely euthanized after staff noticed a decline in his health and, following “careful consideration,” determined euthanasia was the most compassionate option.
Longtime resident and visitor favourite
Koda came to the Saskatoon zoo as part of a pair of male grizzlies that had previously been cared for at other Alberta institutions. He was rescued as an orphaned cub in Jasper by staff at the Edmonton Valley Zoo, later lived at the Calgary Zoo where he was paired with another male bear, Mistaya, and the brothers were transferred to the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo, where they lived for the past 18 years.
In a news release, zoo manager Jeff Mitchell said the decision to euthanize was "an exceptionally difficult decision for the entire animal care team." He added visitors and staff alike had deep affection for Koda, and that the animal care team prioritised his welfare and quality of life when making the call.
"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." — Jeff Mitchell, zoo manager
Care practices and life at the zoo
Zoo officials described Koda as a "well-known and valued" member of the zoo family. Staff supported his mental and physical health through positive-reinforcement training, daily monitoring and enrichment activities. The release highlighted small but telling behaviours: Koda’s enthusiasm for training sessions and his habit of checking Mistaya’s feeding area after meals, “just in case his brother had left something behind.”
Visitors commonly saw the brothers at play, wrestling and splashing in the pool — moments that staff say helped connect the public to wildlife and fostered appreciation for grizzly behaviour and conservation.
What happens next for Mistaya
Zoo officials said Mistaya will be monitored continuously following Koda’s passing to watch for changes in behaviour or wellbeing. The loss of a long-time companion can affect social animals in different ways, and staff will be observing Mistaya closely to ensure he receives extra care and support as needed.
- Koda’s origin: Rescued as an orphaned cub in Jasper by Edmonton Valley Zoo staff.
- Previous homes: Edmonton Valley Zoo; Calgary Zoo (paired with Mistaya).
- Saskatoon residency: Lived at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo for about 18 years.
Community impact
Koda’s presence at the Forestry Farm Park and Zoo spanned nearly two decades, meaning many Saskatoon residents and visitors grew up seeing him and Mistaya. Zoo officials emphasised that the decision was made with Koda’s best interests at heart, and that staff who worked with him every day remember him fondly.
While the zoo did not release further medical details, the public statement stressed the role of the animal care team and their commitment to evidence-based welfare practices. For visitors who have questions or who wish to pay respects, the zoo’s communications channels are the primary source for updates about Mistaya and any planned tributes or interpretive programming related to Koda’s life.
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Rescue | Orphaned cub in Jasper; rescued by Edmonton Valley Zoo staff |
| Calgary Zoo | Paired with Mistaya |
| Saskatoon residency | Approximately 18 years at the Forestry Farm Park and Zoo |
| Passing | Humanely euthanized after decline in health; announced by the zoo |
The loss underscores the close bond between animal care staff and the individual animals in their charge, and it is a reminder of the roles urban zoos play in conservation, education and community connection to wildlife. Zoo officials said Koda will be remembered for his personality and the many moments he shared with staff and the public.
