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ABQ BioPark's only jaguar Maya dies at 20
The animal, who arrived at the zoo in 2014, surpassed the median life expectancy for jaguars
Maya, the ABQ BioPark鈥檚 only jaguar, was euthanized last week due to age-related health issues.
The big cat arrived at the zoo in 2014 at age 8 and died at 20, surpassing the median life expectancy for jaguars of 18.8 years, according to the BioPark.
鈥淢aya was a special animal, and it was a privilege to care for her,鈥� said Carol Bradford, senior veterinarian at the ABQ BioPark.
The BioPark credited Maya鈥檚 longevity to the care she received in recent years, including adjustments to her daily routine to keep her comfortable and engaged.
鈥淪he was deeply loved by those who knew her best,鈥� Bradford said. 鈥淲e are grateful for the many years we had with her.鈥�
Last fall, the zoo celebrated Maya鈥檚 20th birthday on International Jaguar Day.
鈥淪he鈥檚 living proof that with quality care and the right attitude, the good times can continue well into the golden years,鈥� the zoo said in a statement.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies jaguars as "near threatened," according to the BioPark.
The designation means the population of the species has declined and continues to decrease, but enough jaguars remain in the wild to avoid being classified as endangered.
Karmina Conde is a news reporter for the Journal. You can reach her at kconderuiz@abqjournal.com
