Kazi, the Saskatoon Zoo’s 19-year-old snow leopard, has died

(Courtesy: Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo)

The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo has lost one of its beloved large cats.

Kazi the snow leopard had been under close monitoring for some time as the elderly 19-year-old feline’s health had declined due to advanced age. Over the weekend, the zoo’s animal care and veterinary team were forced to make a difficult decision.

“After careful and ongoing assessment of his condition and quality of life, the difficult decision was made to euthanize him,” the zoo said in a news release Monday.

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“Caring for animals also means making difficult decisions when their quality of life declines,” Jeff Mitchell, zoo manager, said in the release.

“This was not a decision made lightly. Our team cared deeply for Kazi and we are grateful to the animal care and veterinary professionals who supported him with compassion every step of the way.”

Kazi, who had just turned 19 in June, was born at the Toronto Zoo and came to Saskatoon from the Edmonton Valley Zoo.

The park says Kazi played an important role in the Snow Leopard Species Survival Plan Program for several years before “enjoying his retirement at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo.”

“He was a valued member of the zoo family and will be deeply missed by the staff who cared for him, as well as by the many visitors who came to know him over the years,” the zoo said.

Zoo officials say Kazi shied away from the spotlight – typical of his species, which are often called “ghosts of the mountains” because of their camouflage and elusive nature.

“Even in his habitat, Kazi could sometimes be hard to spot, often found resting high on his wooden structure or tucked beneath it near his favourite rock. For many guests, catching sight of Kazi was a special and memorable part of visiting the Zoo.”

Commemorative signs will be set up later this week outside the snow leopard habitat, where visitors are being invited to leave a message for Kazi.