A polar bear which was believed to be the last one surviving in Africa has died. The bear passed away at the Johannesburg Zoo.
Wang, a 28-year-old bear who lived at Johannesburg Zoo died after a battle with chronic arthritis and liver failure, according to Forbes.
A statement from the zoo read: “The Chief Veterinarian, Dr Brett Gardener had to make a very tough decision at 11.49 today. Africa’s last polar bear Wang had to be put down due to liver failure and chronic arthritis.”
The bear had originally been diagnosed with the ailments in 2010 and had been on medication ever since.
Wang had apparently not dealt with the death of his partner GeeBee very well. The pair lived together since they were brought to the zoo in 1986 but GeeBee passed away seven months ago, leaving Wang distraught and in mourning.
According to Forbes, Agnes Maluleke, his keeper, often had to try cheer him up with treats.
