ASHEBORO N.C. (ACME NEWS) — The North Carolina Zoo announced the deaths of two beloved animals this week, including Paco, a 13-year-old harbor seal, and Pearl, a 19-year-old ostrich.
Paco died Aug. 11 after developing a large lung mass, according to zoo officials. The cause of death had not been determined at the time of announcement.
The harbor seal had lived at the Zoo’s Rocky Coast exhibit since arriving at the facility 13 years ago.
“Paco was an amazing seal. He was handsome and strong. Super smart,” Keeper Sally said in a statement. “He craved challenges and always made his keepers think and try new ways of doing things. From the goofy looks to the exasperated eye rolls when we weren’t doing something to his liking — he was truly one of a kind.”
Three days after Paco’s death, the Zoo announced that Pearl, an ostrich, had been euthanized following complications from severe reproductive disease discovered during a surgical procedure.
Pearl, who arrived at the Zoo as a 1-year-old, had lived on Watani Grasslands for 18 years. Zoo veterinarians had placed her under anesthesia when they discovered the reproductive disease carried a “guarded prognosis,” according to officials.
“Pearl was a bit of a diva! She had a sense for fashion and would often inspect the Zoofari crowds to pick out the earrings, watches and cell phones she thought most flashy,” Keeper Jade said. “Once you earned her respect, she showed you all her funny quirks, played grape games, and would let you warm your hands under her wings on cold winter mornings.”
###
