Rahul Somvanshi
Khutzeymateen’s Legacy: A Grizzly Life Journey
Follow the remarkable 35-year story of Khutzeymateen (“Khutzy”), a beloved grizzly at the Calgary Zoo, and discover the broader context of grizzly conservation in Canada.
Birth at Calgary Zoo
Khutzeymateen was born at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, beginning a lifetime as an ambassador for her species. Named after a protected grizzly sanctuary in British Columbia, she would become one of the zoo’s most recognized residents.
Educational Ambassador
For more than three decades, Khutzy served as a key ambassador, teaching thousands of visitors about grizzlies and the importance of coexisting safely with wildlife. Her strong personality made her a favorite among zoo staff and visitors alike.
Grizzly Lifespan Facts
Grizzly bears typically live around 25 years in the wild, while those in captivity can reach beyond 40 years with proper care.
Skoki Arrives
Skoki, a male grizzly born in Banff National Park and first known as “Grizzly Bear #16,” arrived at the zoo. He had earned a reputation as a problem bear after learning to associate humans with food. Parks Canada relocated him several times before his transfer to the zoo.
Farewell to Skoki
The zoo euthanized Skoki, who was approximately 35 years old, after he experienced declining health. The difficult decision was made in accordance with veterinary guidelines for end-of-life care, weighing quality of life indicators including mobility, appetite, and responsiveness to pain management.
Diamond Valley Incident
Alberta Fish & Wildlife reported that a hunter near Diamond Valley shot and killed a grizzly bear in self-defense after the bear charged. The incident left two cubs orphaned, leading to their temporary placement at the Calgary Zoo’s Animal Health Centre.
Orphaned Cubs
Two wild grizzly cubs born in 2025, orphaned after their mother’s death in Diamond Valley, found temporary shelter at Calgary Zoo. These orphaned cubs require special care as they are still fully dependent on their mother and would not survive in the wild without intervention.
Cubs Rehabilitation
The cubs are being cared for at the zoo’s Animal Health Centre and are not on public display. They will remain in the zoo’s care until a permanent placement is arranged, highlighting the important role of wildlife rehabilitation facilities.
Khutzeymateen’s Final Day
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo announced plans to euthanize 35-year-old Khutzeymateen after she experienced a significant health decline. The zoo’s Animal Care, Health & Welfare team determined that supportive care, which had kept Khutzy comfortable, may soon no longer be enough.
Animal care specialist Nicole Yeoman said the team had been concerned about stiffness caused by arthritis and old age since Khutzy came out of hibernation.
Visit Calgary Zoo’s Announcement
