Klondike, the oldest polar bear in the U.S., dead at 34

PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- The Philadelphia Zoo has confirmed the death of Klondike, the oldest polar bear in the United States.

Veterinarians concluded euthanasia was the best option for Klondike after the 34-year-old female bear experienced a series of health issues including infection and mobility problems over the past two weeks.

"Despite treatment, there was no significant improvement in her condition, and given her advanced age and poor prognosis for return to a good quality of life, zoo staff decided that the best decision would be to humanely euthanize her," the zoo said.

Born in the Bronx Zoo in 1980, Klondike arrived at the country's first zoo in Philadelphia a year later. She lived alongside a fellow female bear of similar age named Coldilocks.

"We are very sad for this loss -- Klondike was a very popular resident at Philadelphia Zoo," said the destination's General Curator Kevin Murphy.

"She received great care from her keepers and the veterinary staff during her long and healthy life here. She will be greatly missed by our staff. In addition to the joy she brought guests over more than three decades, she has been an important ambassador to wild polar bears, who are increasingly threatened by climate change and resulting shrinkage of polar ice. We hope she has inspired many to make commitments in their daily lives to reduce energy and water use, which will contribute to efforts to slow climate change."