Remembering Blizzard

It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that our beloved polar bear Blizzard was humanely euthanized yesterday after a rapid decline in his health. Blizzard was rescued as an orphaned cub in Churchill, Canada before coming to Point Defiance Zoo in 1997. The elderly bear was diagnosed with liver cancer in Sept. 2021 and was receiving chemotherapy treatment and other supportive care to slow the progression of the disease. At 26, he lived past the median life expectancy of 23 years for polar bears in human care. Blizzard inspired generations of guests from around the world to care about his species. He was an engaging bear, whose athleticism, vigorous playtimes in his saltwater pool and interaction with guests belied both his age and illness. Our entire Zoo family is devastated by the loss of this extraordinary bear and our thoughts are with his animal care team. Blizzard will be deeply missed. Learn more at pdza.org/remembering-blizzard

[@SQseaotter]

Beautiful tribute to a beautiful soul.

[@DariyontheCloudedLeopardWild]

I'm Sorry for Blizzard.

[@crimsonstang]

Most of my friends growing up are gone now. I'll miss Blizzard, Boris, and ET.

[@cbrezable5727]

RIP..Angel.. 💔 You were to good for Humans..And Containment...Your Beautiful and Always will be A Remarkable Rememberance ❤️ of How Special You Were and Showed The Importance of Animals on this fragile 🌎

[@catherinemirra9463]

So sorry😞🌹🌹

[@ccoop3774]

RIP beautiful boy.

[@elliottmayer-yeager8087]

Love ya blizzard. Have fun up there.

[@sarcastanaut]

Goodbye, Blizzard. I loved you. 😞💙

[@ThePartySample]

im sorry for the loss.

[@carrieh465]

Boris and Blizzard were mainstays for us over the years. We’ll miss them dearly, and are thankful we could visit them when we were able.

[@stevenwhuntva]

Such an adorable boy. I already miss you.

[@leeroyjerkins1]

RIP Blizzard

[@lovepet4565]

We love you Blizz and all
Your polar bear family

[@tymo9288]

Beautiful Blizzard tribute!

[@beartrapcat]

We used to come weekly and bee line it to see him. Thanks for the memories. Rest easy.

[@mattharris1579]

Majestic and beautiful, he will be missed.

[@danhaselton5858]

Sad, today.

[@RaphGirl]

RIP Blizzard. Always loved watching him.

[@RakeshRaj-jp1cy]

here after two years and I still miss my good friend Blizzard. RIP buddy never forgotten.

[@jadehedglin1430]

What's gonna happen to the polar bear exhibit

[@straitmungry]

Seriously, please do not get rid of it. They truly are a pleasure in this world.

[@crystalroddenberry2862]

RIP! My boys loved getting to know you when we had our zoo pass! 😍😭

[@SheWolfMoon]

RIP Blizzard. I am so sad.

[@albertvejar4992]

Blizzard rip I miss you I first saw you in 2001 miss you buddy

[@willabald]

Oh I loved him, didn't know he passed away 😢

[@nickwagner6243]

Why