Farewell to a Legend: Toronto Zoo Mourns Beloved Hippo Pele

The Toronto Zoo is mourning the loss of a true icon, its cherished 39-year-old female river hippo, Pele. Affectionately known as "big and beautiful," Pele was humanely euthanized this week following a significant and irreversible decline in her quality of life, a heart-wrenching decision made by the dedicated veterinary and wildlife care teams.

Pele, whose name resonated with power and grace, had been a beloved fixture at the Toronto Zoo since 1996, arriving from her birthplace at the Jacksonville Zoo.

For nearly three decades, she captivated countless visitors with her majestic presence, gentle demeanor, and impressive aquatic ballet. She was not just an animal in an exhibit; she was a personality, a gentle giant who left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of observing her.

Her advanced age brought with it an array of health challenges, typical for an animal of her years.

Despite extensive medical management and the tireless efforts of her care team, Pele's physical and mental health deteriorated to a point where intervention became necessary. The zoo’s animal care professionals, who deeply understand and love these creatures, determined that euthanasia was the most compassionate course of action to prevent further suffering, ensuring her final moments were peaceful and dignified.

Pele's longevity was truly remarkable.

At 39, she held the distinction of being the oldest common hippo in any North American zoo, a testament to the exceptional care, nutrition, and enriched environment provided by the Toronto Zoo. Her life served as a powerful educational tool, teaching generations about the wonders of wildlife, the importance of conservation, and the complex beauty of the natural world.

Her absence will be profoundly felt throughout the zoo community.

Zookeepers and staff who worked with Pele daily shared a unique bond with her, often speaking of her individual quirks and the quiet intelligence in her eyes. Visitors, young and old, will miss her distinctive presence in the African Rainforest pavilion, particularly her graceful movements through the water and her calm, watchful gaze.

As the Toronto Zoo bids farewell to Pele, they do so with heavy hearts but also with immense gratitude for the decades of joy, education, and inspiration she brought.

Her legacy will live on, a poignant reminder of the incredible lives fostered within the zoo's care and the profound connections we forge with the animal kingdom. Rest in peace, Pele, you will be dearly missed.