Sad News: Shikari the Polar Bear
Posted at 10:58 am May 2, 2007 by Christina Simmons
The San Diego Zoo regrets to announce our 12-year-old polar bear, Shikari, who lived at the San Diego Zoo for 11 years, was euthanized by veterinary staff on Monday, April 23. The female bear had been under veterinary care for several days and monitored under 24-hour care for a medical condition. Unfortunately, her health and quality of life continued to deteriorate despite diagnostic and therapeutic efforts. The veterinary and animal care staff made the difficult decision to euthanize Shikari.
Shikari was found orphaned with her sister Chinook when only a few months old in 1995. Under the auspices of wildlife authorities, both youngsters were given a home at the San Diego Zoo in 1996. Animal care staff is now working on a plan to incorporate Chinook with the two other polar bears at Polar Bear Plunge.
During this past year, Shikari played a vital role in an acoustic sensitivity study on female polar bears to better understand the sensitivity of their hearing so that scientists can estimate what noises would be disturbing or damaging to their social communication and/or ability to hear (see blog, Can You Hear Me Now?). This information is especially important as it may help wildlife managers in the Arctic determine what industrial activity could be damaging to these bears. Shikari’s death is a real loss not just to the people who cared for her but also to the science community that is contributing to data that will help wild polar bears.
Shikari will be sorely missed by the people who have cared for her for many years.
Christina Simmons is the associate marketing director for the Zoological Society of San Diego.
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May 2nd, 2007 at 11:18 am
So very sorry to hear about your loss. Do polar bears grieve like other animals do if they can’t find their companion?
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:21 pm
I have been searching your website on word of Shikari when her picture was not shown. Will truly miss seeing
her at play. Love your website and all the great information supplied. Sorry for your loss.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:23 pm
I had not found your web cameras all that long ago, but sure do enjoy watching the animals. I thought there had been 4 bears, then just three, so kept watching to see if there was anything said. thank you for letting us know. that is so sad, but it sounds like you did all you could and it was for the best!
I am sure the polar bears will grieve, as i feel that all animals do, just like humans. Many years ago i came across a large skunk that had been hit by a car and laying on the road, and a large skunk and 2 small ones were standing by it in the middle of the road. that scene stays with me!
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:31 pm
My condolences to you all! How is Chinook?
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:37 pm
I’am very sorry for the lost of your polar bear, I watched them play every day and greatly miss her. I hope her sister is doing ok.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:39 pm
I am deeply saddened by the death of Shikari. I had recently noticed her picture was missing off the website and feared somethind bad had happened to her. Thank you for posting this story. She was a beautiful animal and a sweet spirit. I am glad Chinook will be able to mingle with the other two polar bears, as I’m sure she is quite lonely.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:48 pm
I had a feeling something was wrong when i didn’t see her picture, to all who gave so much to care for her and did all that you could my condolences, she will be missed
May 2nd, 2007 at 1:14 pm
She will be very missed! Am so sorry for all the keepers and staff who took care of her. Hope her sister and the other bears are doing ok.
May 2nd, 2007 at 2:08 pm
Thanks for “breaking the news” to us. Shikari will be missed by all. It is sad to think of Chinook on her own for the first time in her life. How is Chinook doing without her bedroom mate to sleep in late in the AM? They seemed to really enjoy each other’s company, and the tales of the mischief they got into in their bedroom was very amusing. Sounded like things human siblings, especially twins, would do.
We look forward to future news about the three bears becoming a “family” and being on exhibit together.
Hopefully the research gained in the hearing study will help with the concerns about Polar Bears in the wild. Are you continuing the study with Chinook? Do Kalluk and Tatqiq participate in the study as well, or were just Shikari and Chinook involved?
Do you have any plans to breed Kalluk with any female polar bears? I read that Tatqiq is on birth control so she is not on the list. Is Chinook too old, or not a good match?
May 2nd, 2007 at 3:53 pm
So sorry to hear the news. I have been wondering too when I did not see her picture. Was waiting for an update.
She will be greatly missed!!!
Just wondering how long polar bears live????
I sure hope this will not affect Chinook. I am looking forward to all three being together in the near future.
Keep up the great work!!!
May 2nd, 2007 at 4:28 pm
I am very sad to read the news. Shikari was a beautiful polar bear and she will be missed by all.
May 2nd, 2007 at 4:30 pm
I am very sad to here the sad news. I am also shocked because not that long ago you wrote an article on her and her sister. When was she put to sleep? When did she become sick/not well? I hope her sister is O.K Will her sister miss her?
Will you breed her with the other male polar bear?
May 2nd, 2007 at 4:35 pm
Thank you for your reply. I am so sorry to hear the sad news of Shikari’s euthanasia. She will be sadly missed. I hope Chinook will be able to cope with her loss and that incorporating her with Kalluk and Tatqiq will be successful.
You all do a wonderful job looking after the animals and I wish you all the best in the future.
May 2nd, 2007 at 4:45 pm
So sorry to hear about your loss. I am also saddened by the loss to science, and her role in the ongoing auditory study. Will her sister’s integration with the younger bears include a birth control regime? Also you declined to specify what medical condition, and I was wondering if it is something that could be hereditary or contagious that Chinook might be vulnerable to as well.
May 2nd, 2007 at 6:54 pm
# 2 - Donna, yes me too, I had noticed over the weekend that her picture was gone and inquired about it, but did not hear anything.
I’ve been visiting the site daily to see any news, and now found out the sad news. I hope the other pair will let Chinook join them, so she is not left alone. Another sad day for the staff at the SDZ.
Sorry for your loss. But I did want to ask, what was Shikari’s medical condition, and how long do the keepers think it could take for Chinook to be accepted by the other two bears. Is Chinook greiving for her sisters ?
And is there any plan to breed Chinook with Kalluk ? My condolances to all the staff at the SDZ.
May 3rd, 2007 at 5:33 am
What “medical condition” was she suffering from? When will the results of a necropsy be made available? Thank you.
May 3rd, 2007 at 6:09 am
So sorry for your loss. Has anybody been sick or euthanized in the past years at this zoo?
May 3rd, 2007 at 6:10 am
I am so deeply sad that she had to be put down. My heart goes out to the staff who took care of her.
May 3rd, 2007 at 6:10 am
I really feel your pain.I hope that every other animal will be healthy for years to come and go.
May 3rd, 2007 at 8:27 am
I am so sorry to hear the news about Shikari. I watch them everyday and enjoy seeing them. Polar Bears are my favorite animal and one day I will not only visit those presious animals at your zoo but see them at my dream trip to churchhill. It will be nice to see her with Kalluk and Tatqiq and not alone. Thank you for letting us enjoy these wonder animals with the use of your zoo cam.
May 3rd, 2007 at 8:32 am
I am deeply regret to hear the death of Shikari. She is valiant to struggle with the disease. I’ll never forget and proud of her great contribution. I hope Chinook is brave enough to face the sorrow of losing her sister.
I hereby give my best regards to the Zoo Keepers and staffs who care for the Polar Bear Plunge.
May 3rd, 2007 at 9:34 am
Thank you for publishing the news about Shikari. Very sad to hear about her. I wish all the Zoo Keepers my very best at this sad time.
May 3rd, 2007 at 9:43 am
I am terribly sorry to hear of the loss of Shikari. I hope that Chinook will be able to be integrated with the other two. Since they have “shared” an exhibit and have probably been able to smell each other, will this make it easier for her to be accepted by Kalluk and Tatqiq? I do sincerely hope so.
Thank you for all the hard work that you all do in taking care of these special animals.
May 3rd, 2007 at 11:01 am
We are very sorry to read about the loss of Shikari. We think her sister will be very sad but we hope that she can join the other bears and live a happy life. We are very sorry for the people who cared for Shikari and continue to care for Chinook and the other bears. We are sure Shikari will live on in everyones memories forever. we enjoy watching all the live cams from England and will continue to do so. Keep up the good work.
May 3rd, 2007 at 11:07 am
To all the caregivers: I am so sorry to hear this news. My condolences to the zoo staff who cared for her. Shikari will be missed by many who admired her. I will look forward to seeing Chinook with Kalluk and Tatqiq.
May 3rd, 2007 at 11:37 am
I missed seeing her on 4/23 and called the zoo and was told she had died. I wonder why it took them so long to give information. I would also like to know the nature of her illness.
May 3rd, 2007 at 12:51 pm
That makes me so sad, what was her medical condition it must have been very serious. I am very sorry for the loss.
May 3rd, 2007 at 3:15 pm
To All The Caregivers At The Polar Bear Exhibit,
My deepest condolences to all who cared for Shikari. I was so sad when I read that Shikari had to be put to sleep. I fondly remember her with Chinook playing in the snow one summer in 1999. They put on quite a show for all the visitors. They would slip and slide down the “snow mountains” searching for the hidden treats beneath the snow. They were both young and rambunctious and a lot of fun to watch. We took many photos of them that day. Also on that day, JoAnne Simerson, senior polar bear expert keeper, came over to talk with the visitors and answered everyone’s questions. JoAnne mentioned how lucky the San Diego Zoo was to obtain the delightful couple. Very true! Good Luck to Chinook.
Regards,
Rose N.
May 3rd, 2007 at 3:18 pm
I like to visit the web cam to watch the polar bears. It’s a treat to take time out from my busy day. I’m saddened to hear of the loss of Shikari. She gave joy to all who watched her from the zoo and online. My condolences’ to those directly touched by this loss; her caretakers and the zoo staff that do their best day in and day out to make the best life possible for these majestic creatures.
May 3rd, 2007 at 4:40 pm
I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of Shikari. I was wondering why there were only pictures of 3 bears on the site. What a beautiful magnificent creature she was. Thankfully she lived a wonderful life with the 3 other bears at the zoo. I hope you can put them together sometimes so she won’t be lonely without her sibling. She will be sorely missed. God bless you, Shikari.
May 4th, 2007 at 1:10 am
All of us miss Shikari so much.
Is it possible to display Shikari’s photo album and some articles in memory of her ?
May 4th, 2007 at 9:09 am
so sorry to hear of the los of your beautiful bear i live in somerset in the uk and look at this site everyday despite the time difference i will miss watching her on the webcam
May 4th, 2007 at 9:47 am
My heart goes out to all of you in this, the most difficult decision of all. It is so hard to lose a friend that has been a part of your lives for so many years. May the pain in your hearts, in time be replaced with loving memories of Beautiful Shikari. And, never forget how much we appreciate how much love and devotion you give to those amazing creatures in your care. Blessed Be All of Thee, Judy J
May 4th, 2007 at 10:14 am
AWWWW! Im so sorry what happended to the poor polar bear! i wish could see the animals on the camera but sadly you can’t so try to get the animals out more often because one its good for their health and two its good for people that want to see what they look like.
SINCERLY,
EMILY
May 4th, 2007 at 11:13 am
so sorry to hear of your sad loss,it must be hard for you all .
May 4th, 2007 at 11:34 am
I am so sorry to hear this news. I was so very lucky to visit the zoo when they first arrived. I will never forget watching them play together. I have gone back at least 4 times since then and I always loved watching them. TI want to thank You and Your staff for loving these animals so much. Though your hearts are saddened right now, just know that Her memories are going to go on forever and You made a difference in Her life!
Sincerely,
VIcky
May 4th, 2007 at 6:10 pm
My heart is low in sympathy for your loss. What a magnificent beast! I wish I could of seen her!
May 4th, 2007 at 7:25 pm
I am sorry to hear about your loss may god be with all of you in your time of grief
May 5th, 2007 at 2:35 am
i am so sorry to hear the news but sometimes these things just have to happen.and im so sorry for the loss!
Sincerely
Lucy
May 5th, 2007 at 9:27 am
I am very sorry to hear about your loss. I can truly sympathize with all of you who cared for Shikari. It is always the worst decision of all to make to have an animal which had become a friend for years euthanized. However, whenever I had to put one of my cats or dogs to sleep, due to fatal illness, I knew that it was the best and least I could have done for my beloved pet in order to spare him (her) suffering. May the fond memories of Shikari carry on living in your hearts!
May 5th, 2007 at 10:49 am
I loved to watch Chinook and Shikari on the Polar bear cam. I will miss her very much. My thoughts and prayers go out to those who took care of her and to Chinook, too.
May 5th, 2007 at 1:39 pm
I am so sorry to hear the news! My day is just not complete until I look at the bears and to hear this is very unsetting. Hopefully her sister will be ok and be able to “make a family” with the other bears. My heart goes out to the keepers and her sister. Take care and my thoughts and prayers are with you and her sister in this sad time.
May 5th, 2007 at 2:47 pm
So sorry for your loss. I will miss watching her.
May 5th, 2007 at 4:12 pm
I am sorry that Chinook lost her sister, no other polar bear could replace her. I watch all the cams daily…
She is in a better place now and forever will be missed.
May 5th, 2007 at 4:43 pm
Just 2 days ago I found the web cams because of my state reaserch on california i enjoyd watching the polar bears today 5-5-07 i saw that next to her picture said sad news I then knew what happend I’m so very sorry I’m sad to and I’ve never seen her in person Once again I’m very sorry about the loss
May 6th, 2007 at 7:28 am
I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of wonderful Shikari. I don’t know from which illness she suffered, and it must have been a difficult decision for the veterinary. Unfortunately, I have never seen her in person as I am living abroad and didn’t have the chance to visit her. Hope that Chinook is fine although she will be grieving for her sister. I will look forward to seeing Chinook with the other bears.
My deepest condolences to all the people who care about these majestic animals.
Sincerely
Sonja
May 6th, 2007 at 8:46 am
Like so many others, I also knew something wasn’t right when her picture disappeared from the website. My heart aches for all of you there who cared for and loved Shikari. I’m thankful that Chinook has all of you to help her thru this and to give her that little extra love and care as she misses her sister. Can you please give us a little more information on what happened to Shikari - how she became ill, what it was, and could it affect the other bears?
Thank you so much; you’re all in my thoughts and prayers. We love you Shikari and will miss you.
May 6th, 2007 at 10:26 am
Sorry to hear the sad news, we had noticed her disapearance and feared the worst. Hope chinook manages to join the other two succesfully.
May 6th, 2007 at 10:37 am
I am very sad to read this news as I wanted to(and still do) come out to see these beautiful animals. I know its very very difficult to put an animal to sleep as we had to do that very same task, but in that same note you don’t want to see the animal suffer with whatever ailment they have.. My condolences to her caretakers and staff as it must have been difficult but also fun to take care of a polar bear. Shikari will be missed,,I also hope that Chinook will be alright with Kalluk and Tatqiq..When I first found this site I was so elated that I could watch these animals, I love animals and care for all types of bears..I will, as many others will miss her..
May 6th, 2007 at 11:39 am
I am sorry to hear this news..I hope Chinook will be accepted by Kalluk and Tatqiq as i saw a program on Animal Planet “Growing Up Polar Bear”where a poacher shot a mother with 2 cubs,,(long story short the cub was not accepted by the other polar bears in the zoo that he was transferred to from the begining) but hopefully she will be accepted by Kalluk and Tatqiq..
May 6th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
I am very sad to read the news. I love bears, especially polar bears, and I am sorry she had to suffer and leave this world at this age. I have been watching Chinook today, and she seems to be grieving and searching for her sister. I hope Chinook will be able to cope with her loss and that incorporating her with Kalluk and Tatqiq or another bear will be successful. I know Shikari cannot be replaced, she has been her companion for 12 years, but there are some single polar bears in other zoos, and they might make friends.
Would it be possible to display Shikari’s photo album and some articles in memory of her?
My best regards to the Zoo Keepers and staffs who care for the Polar Bear Plunge.
Sincerely
Gollo
May 6th, 2007 at 3:14 pm
Such sad news indeed. When I first noticed Shikari missing from the plunge I thought maybe she was not feeling well or undergoing rutine test but when I saw that her picture was suddenly gone I feared the worst. My deepest condolences to all of Skikari’s keepers and the entire zoo staff. Poor Chinook. I am sure she misses her sister. I do hope it will work out for her to be able to join Kalluk and Tatqiq at polar bear plunge. Shikari will be missed by all.
May 7th, 2007 at 7:31 am
sorry about the bad news
May 7th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
One of the Panda Bear cameras will follow the bear around which is neat. I wish the Polar Bear one did too, as they frolic in the water and go out of the camera range! Can this be done? June
May 7th, 2007 at 4:54 pm
So sorry to hear the sad news and the loss of a wonderful polar bear Shikari. I noticed her picture wasn’t on the web site and I knew something was wrong. It is always sad to loose any animal and know all of you and especially the keepers are very sad. I grieve right along with you, I loved watching the polar bears and have many wonderful videos of her and her playing with her sister. I will miss her lots and I hope the introduction to the other 2 goes well so she can be with them and not alone. I look forward to that day as you do! I hope one day too there will be more polar bear cubs rescued and we can again watch them grow and play.
Bless all of you during this sad time….
May 7th, 2007 at 5:00 pm
My heart goes out to you who knew Shikari well. Thank you for the care you give these precious bears.
May 7th, 2007 at 6:34 pm
I so sad and heartbroken to hear that Shikari has crossed the “rainbow bridge” to heaven. I’m going to miss Shikari as she played with her sister Chinook. I could always tell it was her when I saw Chinook’s brownish fur. What a beauty she was. I hope Chinook is going to be o.k. after missing her sister. My prayer is for Tatqiq and Kalluk will be accepting of her since she’s lost her sister. Have they ever had contact before? I hope the transition will be smooth for her.
May 8th, 2007 at 6:51 am
The panda cam that “follows the bear around” is most likely controlled by a human. At NZP they are constantly manning the panda cams and refocus as the pandas move around the exhibit.
May 8th, 2007 at 9:08 am
When I noticed that her picture was no longer up, I searched around the internet for news and was never able to find any. Thank you so much for letting us know what happened. I love to watch the cams, and I’ll miss her. My condolences to those who worked with her - it must be a difficult loss.
May 8th, 2007 at 12:45 pm
I`m so sorry about your lost, how is Chinook doing? Is Chinook going to have a new playmate, so that she won`t be alone?
May 8th, 2007 at 4:29 pm
As with other people I too searched for news, but to no avail. Very sad news.
May 8th, 2007 at 9:20 pm
I’m terribly saddened to hear about Shikari. I’ve always enjoyed the polar bears, and I certainly enjoyed watching her with her sister. My deepest condolences to all those that cared for Shikari, and I sincerely hope that Chinook is doing okay.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:48 am
well it had to be done I just hope
her sister is okay with out her
May 9th, 2007 at 4:50 am
Hey im sorry to hear about shikari. And i hope chinook is ok, this loss must leave chinook devasted! I hope chinook gets another playmate! And we will all remember shikari from the good times everyone had with her.
Nick
May 9th, 2007 at 6:17 am
I’m very sorry that you lost Shikari, How is Chinook doing? Hopefully you can find a new playmate for Chinook. At least she will have someone to play with and not be alone. Still very sorry about Shikari. It is so sad that i can’t stop thinking about what a loss it was.
Tristan
May 9th, 2007 at 9:16 am
So Sory for your lose and ours. We enjoy watching the animals everyday and am saddened that Shikari will no longer be with us. Y’all do a awesome job and I know this is such a great lose to you. Thoughts and prayers are with you and Chinook.
May 9th, 2007 at 10:31 am
I am sorry that Shikari died. how are the other polar bears taking it? Was she the most
popular polar bear? It must be hard having to say bye to a polar bear that the zoo has had for
11 years. Well you made the right choice.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:47 pm
so sad to hear of the loss of shikari…..i view your web cams every day …..it has become part of my daily “ritual”……my heart and thoughts are with the staff…..the scientific work that involved shikari will undoubtedly live on in the future research….accolades to all who are involved
May 9th, 2007 at 3:05 pm
he died he was a great polar bear and i think he was cool. he was a 11 year old polar bear and a old one.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:45 pm
I was so sorry to hear about Shikari I know this must be a very sad time. Our family just had to say good-bye to our dog of 14yrs, it is a very hard thing to have to do! I get great enjoyment watching the zoo’s animals cam’s.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:46 pm
I can’t belive that she died, she was my favorite polar bear!!! I am really sad and I am very sorry for your loss!!!!!!!!!
I ♥ Her!!!!!!! (Still)
May 10th, 2007 at 4:40 am
Hello,
Sorry again about Skikari’s death. It was probably more fun for Chinook when Shikari was there with her and Chinook must not be acting normal without Shikari. Hope you can find a new playmate soon! I think Shikari was one of the best playmates Chinook ever had and the best sister too!
Bye,
Tristan
May 10th, 2007 at 6:21 am
The polar bear out on exhibit this morning, Thurs, 5/10, at 6:15 Am PDT, appears to be Tatqiq. She is lounging out on the rocks, and keeps putting her head up in the air. A truck just went past outside the exhibit. I have observed this behavior before. Is she “roaring” or sniffing the air? It appears that she might have been vocalizing because she was just “chillin” before the truck went by, and resumed “chillin” after it was out of sight.
I mention this in conjunction with your hearing test of adult female polar bears. I believe one of the things you were researching is how much outside noise interfers with a bear’s normal behavior. Presumably to see how much the development and encroachment on wild polar bear habitat will affect the females normal breeding and cub rearing behavior. Since SDZ bears (at least Tatqiq) were on birth control, how would that impact your study?
Do the bears vocalize much to each other, or to anyone or anything around them in the indoor or outdoor exhibit?
Since Shikari played such an important role in the hearing study, it would be great to hear more about your findings. The study was covered briefly in an earlier blog, but I have been awaiting more information about what you found. Did you notice a marked difference in the hearing and reactions of Chinook and Shikari?
Did Shikari’s medical condition affect her ability to participate in the hearing study? Hopefully not.
May 10th, 2007 at 7:03 am
I am so sad to read about the loss of Shikari. I only just started to watch the polar cams. I hope her sister is coping well.
May 10th, 2007 at 7:16 am
I am sad to hear this news. Shikari was twelve, is’nt that young for a polar bear? Will we find out exactly what was wrong with her?
Rest in peace in bear paradise, beautiful girl.
May 10th, 2007 at 11:53 am
I was sorry to hear about Shikari , and will miss seeing her . Was wondering why her picture was gone. Hope all goes well for the other girls. Hope to hear more new about informations about what will happen and will their be any new bears coming to the zoo. My heart goes out to the keepers who cared for her and know they did a great job keeping things clean and caring for the bears
May 10th, 2007 at 12:13 pm
My sincere condolences to the Polar bear staff and the zoo on the loss of your beautiful bear. I hope that you all have great memories of her. I also hope that whatever disease or condition that ended her life can be thoroughly investigated, so that, even in death, Shikari can contribute to the body of knowledge we need to save these magnificent animals. Thank you for your dedication to the world’s creatures.
May 10th, 2007 at 12:39 pm
Lots of sympathy for the remaining bears and their humans. Let’s hope that these beautiful creatures will continue to fascinate us and our kids for many years to come - in spite of what we are doing to our planet.
May 10th, 2007 at 3:35 pm
I am deeply sorry for the loss of Shikari the lovely Polar Bear! I am going to miss seeing her on The Animal Cam’s and When I go to the zoo. I hope that we all can continue to Learn and Protect these amazing creatures as well as our earths other Beautiful creatures. I hope Chinook and your other Polar friends are doing great.
May 10th, 2007 at 4:12 pm
I am so sorry for your loss i hate to see any animal get put down like that. I hope everything goes well with chinook and your other polar bear friends.
May 10th, 2007 at 5:04 pm
Wow 81st comment. I guess a lot of people sre saddened by this loss.
But NO one is answering our questions!!!!!!
May 10th, 2007 at 5:05 pm
Wow 81st COMMENT. I guess a lot of people are saddened Shikari’s loss. I know I am.
No one is answering our questions!!!!
May 11th, 2007 at 6:23 am
I am 6 years old I am sorry the the Polar Bear died. I hope her sister is not to sad
May 11th, 2007 at 8:10 am
We are from Sherwood School,
winnipeg, Manitoba,
Canada
We were watching the video of the polar bears and were very sorry to hear about the death of
shikani. We are presently studying Polar Bears and enjoy watching the Polar Bear Video. We also have Polar Bears at our zoo in Winnipeg. Thank you for the information we have received.
May 11th, 2007 at 10:28 am
Please know how much we greive with you. So sorry to hear about Shikari.
May 11th, 2007 at 10:56 am
God bless her and keep her soul.
May 11th, 2007 at 1:10 pm
In regards to #81 & 82 -
We know it’s a terrible loss for the SDZ, but I feel the same as Jack above….
I keep checking the site daily to see if any questions have been answered, and nothing yet.
Can anyone let us know why Shikari died, and how it’s going with the other polar bears, and integrating
Chinook in with them, and weather or not a breeding program is going to start with them ?
May 11th, 2007 at 2:04 pm
May 11th, 2007 at 1:52
Please know how much are 5 kids will miss seeing her and we all greive with the staff. So sorry to hear about Shikari.
May 11th, 2007 at 3:39 pm
I feel so bad for the loss of Shikari the best thing for Shikari is that he isent suffering anymore.
May 12th, 2007 at 5:56 am
I always dreemed of seeing a panda bear. I have found ot that the panda cam is the place to go.
May 12th, 2007 at 10:17 am
i am very sorry to hear about shakari’s death. i know every one will honor shakari’s death for i’m sure the staff, the other polar bears and human beings just like i miss her very much and wish she were hear to experiance as long as she should have to live on the earth. evn though she is dead i’m sure she is in a much better place with god! a lot of people will miss her and pray for her as they should. at least she is suffering no more.
p.s. she was my favorite polar bear at the s.d zoo.
May 12th, 2007 at 1:52 pm
Dear Shikari,
every time I watch the other polar bears, especially your sister, I wish you were still in the zoo playing with Chinook. I am really sad and deeply miss you, hoping you are in a better place now.
Sonja
May 12th, 2007 at 5:38 pm
I watch the polar bear cam throughout the day, every day - am so sad about the loss of this magnificent animal. My thoughts and prayers are with those who loved and cared for Shikari.
May 13th, 2007 at 12:55 pm
i am so sad to hear about shikari.i will miss watching her play god bless you all jenn
May 13th, 2007 at 1:44 pm
So sorry to hear of your sad news. I often watch the web cam from my home in Wolverhampton, England. Most times when I log on I go through the web cams at the zoo and find them so interesting to watch. Carry on the good work you do and perhaps, one day, I will be lucky enough to visit your zoo.
May 13th, 2007 at 2:25 pm
Are You Getting A New Polar Bear?????????????????????????????
Please Answer Everybodys QUESTIONS PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
May 13th, 2007 at 5:51 pm
I am so sorry about your loss of Shakari. She was such a wonderful polar bear to watch. she seemed to have loved playing with her sister Chinook and I bet that she misses her very much as much as you gutys do. You tried your best to save her live, but at least she is not suffering anymore and she is in a better place now. She was such a good and pretty polar bear.
May 13th, 2007 at 7:24 pm
Myself and my two children have been wondering what had happen to Shakari. We live in Middleburg, Florida just outside of Jacksonville, we really enjoy watching the animals on your web cam. We are very sorry for your loss. We hope the chinook can learn to play with the two other bears so she is not so lonely.
The Kross Family
May 14th, 2007 at 11:15 am
98 responses to the loss of Shikari is a testament to her great popularity and a tribute to a beautiful white angel. She had a good life in a great place with caring staff to look after her every need and desire. Even letting her be a Sunday morning sleeper every day without making her rise from her slumbers before she chose to do so.
What is the “normal” life span of a polar bear in the wild, and in captivity? Since there are not a huge number in captivity, it may be harder to guage than for other animals. Chinook, I am certain is continuing to receive special attention from her keepers to ease her through the transition to a solitary life, and hopefully into a new “family” group with Kalluk and Tatqiq. Since they are half her age, and therefore likely to be more active, she may need longer to adjust to the “youngsters” and they to an “elder.” What is the social structure of polar bear groups?
Is it possible that Kalluk and Tatqiq will give her deference as an elder? Or, since Kalluk is now a full adult male polar bear is it more likely that he will treat her as he would any adult female in the wild?
Are polar bears harder or easier to integrate into new social groups than other bears/ animals in captivity. Memphis Zoo wrote about the integration of their three polar bears a couple of years ago that was very successful. However, their bears were all younger. Since Chinook is relatively older, is that an important factor in attempting to either integrate her with Kalluk and Tatqiq since she is accustomed to their presence in the exhibit, or with a totally new polar bear from some other source?
May 15th, 2007 at 7:21 am
Like many, I also have been watching the Polar Bear Cam for a while when one day, I noticed that Shikari’s picture was missing. I tried to look up her name through word search, and didn’t get anything. I was devastated - like everyone else when I finally read the posted news on May 2 that Shikari had been euthanized. I think it is most devastating when we never even knew that she was ever been sick!
I join with others who want to know what was wrong with Shikari. Did she have Cancer that is incurable and letting her live would have prolonged her suffering that euthanasia was the only solution?
And I think, though devastated, Chinook probably would have known when her sister is sick - especially if she was so sick that she had to be euthanized. I hope those two had had a chance to say their goodbyes - as Chinook and Shikari had been together all the way from the womb!
We miss you Shikari! We miss your love for blue color…, we miss your striking contrast from your dirt-brown sister Chinook…, we miss your cautiousness and conscientiousness…, in short, we miss YOU!
Rest in peace, Shikari — our White Angel!
May 15th, 2007 at 4:39 pm
I miss Shikari. She was such a white little ball of happiness and joy. I miss your striking contrast from your dirt-brown sister Chinook. Rest in peace, Shikari I miss you alot.
May 16th, 2007 at 5:40 am
I am 9 years old and am very sorry that Shikari died. I will miss her a lot.
May 16th, 2007 at 7:44 am
I come on this site everyday from where i stay and i am very sorry about shikari and feel sorry for chinook and all the staff i know how you feel she was gorgous and i hope you do intergrate chinook as she will be lonely know and what a good job you do in caring for them bye
May 16th, 2007 at 7:56 am
hey that was really sad news how old was she well yall find me on eamil well talk!!
May 16th, 2007 at 11:12 am
aww…
I am sooo sorry for the loss. It’s so sad, but she is now in a better place and out of pain.
May 16th, 2007 at 6:07 pm
I was terribly upset to learn on Shikari’s death. The world will be a sadder place without this magnificient white creature we all came to love so much. I’m going to Churchill in November to spend a week photographing these extraordinary beings who are my love and passion. My deepest sympathies to Shikari’s keepers and everyone involved in the love and care of these irreplacable Kings and Queens of the Arctic. My prayer is that Chinook will thrive in the company of the other bears. Sleep well, snow princess. You will be missed.
May 17th, 2007 at 1:37 pm
I also have been watching the Polar Bear Cam for a while when I noticed that Shikari’s picture was missing. I am glad you let us all know what happned to her.
Do any of the other ones have the same medical condition, i hope not.
Sorry for the loss. I’m sure she will be missed by many.
May 17th, 2007 at 6:53 pm
I’m very sorry to hear this. I hope all is going well with Chinook!
May 18th, 2007 at 9:03 am
Has Chinook been outside this week? I have checked the cam every day, and saw the remaining snow early in the week, but no polar bears. Were they in another part of Polar Bear Plunge that was not on camera, or did I just miss them with my timing?
May 18th, 2007 at 9:13 am
My husband grew up in Churchill Manitoba where these beautiful bears come from. I am so sorry for this tragic loss. They are truly one of God’s majestic creatures.
Barbara #106 enjoy your time up in Churchill, I’m sure you will treasure this experience.
May 19th, 2007 at 7:34 pm
I hope Chinook will feel better soon
May 21st, 2007 at 5:46 pm
I am so sorry to hear that
but you made the right choice. She would be
alive but in such pain
May 22nd, 2007 at 7:18 pm
I feel so bad for the polar bear with veterinary care for 12 years, I hope it did not die!,I love polar bears!!! And polar bears are getting instinked, I got to get a way to stop the instiktion, I don’t want any to die!!!
May 23rd, 2007 at 7:49 am
I am so sorry for your loss.but she is in a better place now…she is happy now and she is no longer in pain
May 23rd, 2007 at 5:32 pm
I am sorry about your loss,
but don’t think of this as a loss but as a massage from god that every thing happens for a reason she lived a long and happy life and is in the habitat in the sky.
May 24th, 2007 at 9:48 am
i wish that they would have never killed that bear it was so cute, all living animals should beable to live and people kill them for weird reaions and thats no way to have to kill a bear. well i hope they dont kill enymore anmiles cuse they are all free living animals
May 24th, 2007 at 11:40 am
I miss coming to the Zoo. I live in Austin, Texas, and came to visit my daughter 5 years in a row! We never missed a chance to visit the Zoo and the Wild Animal Park! I watch all the cams every day, and seem to never see many animals. I just found two bears and was delighted! But I am so sorry this one had to be put away!
We were lucky enough to be there one year and watch them frolic in real snow. Hiding the food was so neat, and they seemed to have a ball!
Looking forward to coming again soon, I hope!
May 24th, 2007 at 3:43 pm
what a sad day it must have been for you all, myself and my children spent many hours watching her play via the web cam as we are in England i hope her sister dont miss her too much
May 25th, 2007 at 7:27 am
Wah! Wah! Wah! it’s sad when any animal dies but that bear was the cutest! Too Bad…:(
May 25th, 2007 at 5:13 pm
I hope that no more polar bears get sick or get exsinct ‘case I love polar bears so much
May 26th, 2007 at 1:19 pm
I am so very sorry for the loss of Shikari. Poor Chinook, the loss must be devastating for her. And for all of you. I often come to the webiste to view them. Please accept my sincere condolences. Best wishes from Seattle, WA for Chinook to integrate smoothly in with the other two bears.
May 26th, 2007 at 2:36 pm
stu says god bless she was a beautiful polar bear may she rest in peace lots of love stewy and jenn
May 27th, 2007 at 12:45 pm
I’m so very sorry to hear of you loss. I never got to see the polar bear for I just found the camera’s but love to watch them. I’m sure she will be sorely missed by her sister and the rest of the polar bears. I know she is still loved by many just as I miss her.
May 28th, 2007 at 8:42 am
I have seen quite a few animals n the cams for the last week or so. Great, I really like watching them, it’s the next best thing to being there!
Where is the 3rd bear?
May 28th, 2007 at 11:30 am
Like all the others, im sad about your loss, but at least she is not suffering, wee must keep there health in mind first. I must say she was a joy to watch just like the others and will be greatly mist…may she now rest in peace, and may will all lurn thanks to her.
May 29th, 2007 at 1:05 pm
I am very sorry about your loss.
I loved watching the live cams and watching her play!
I love polar bears and i loved her i will miss her dearly!
May 29th, 2007 at 2:34 pm
Really sorry to hear the sad news… i always watch the polar bears. It’s really sad news.. i love polar bears atleast she is not suffering now!
jem, newcastle, england
May 29th, 2007 at 11:15 pm
as soon as i heard the news i was upset.its always hard for me to give up animals that died.even if i never seen her i still miss her.im sure that her sister and everyone loved her like me.
May 31st, 2007 at 11:00 am
Poor Shakari! We feel soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo bad.
May 31st, 2007 at 11:29 am
So very sorry to hear about your loss!!! How are the others?
May 31st, 2007 at 6:26 pm
Please give us an update on Chinook and how she is handling this loss. My family and I were visitors of your great zoo a few years ago and seen the love and care given to all the animals. It is so nice to have the ability to see the zoo on the computer, but we would appreciate some kind of an update on Chinook. Thank you.
June 1st, 2007 at 1:19 am
Shikari was the pretiest polar bear in the zoo…it’s a loss….Hopefully the small Knut has now chances to long life…SAVE our polar bears
June 1st, 2007 at 5:36 am
So very sorry to hear about your loss!!! How are the others?
June 1st, 2007 at 10:02 am
I,m very sorry to hear the news that Shikari had to be put down.
My family and I really enjoyed watching the bears on the net.
Once again we are very sorry.
But like S.V. asked do polar bears grieve ??
Steve Bishop, Nashville,Tenn.
June 1st, 2007 at 6:19 pm
I am so sorry about your loss. I know how it feels.
June 2nd, 2007 at 1:52 pm
sorry about the bear
June 5th, 2007 at 12:05 pm
Extremely sad to hear the news. It is really awful to lose an animal.
June 5th, 2007 at 1:39 pm
we loved her!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!every time we
came on here shes the one we saw
god bless sandiego zoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 6th, 2007 at 10:11 am
I am so very sad about this news. I live in Texas and check in often on the polar bears. I was shocked to hear the news. I am happy you posted this news for the people to see Shikari great life. Keep us posted on her sister.
June 6th, 2007 at 4:10 pm
Still no more details from the zoo keepers about Shikari’s illness/death. What’s up with that?
Moderator’s note: A blog is being prepared and will be posted soon.
June 7th, 2007 at 4:20 pm
pour bear I see that bear it was my favorite
June 8th, 2007 at 6:53 am
I hate to hear this news. I pray that Chinook will be accepted among the other two bears. I am wondering why you did not say what medical condition caused Shakari to be put down?
June 8th, 2007 at 10:34 am
hi almost every other day i come on ur web site to view the animals on cam i was shocked&sad to hear about ur polar bed there in san diego had passed on but as we all know it was its time and the suffering is now gone i look forward to seeing all other animals on here its nice to see that this zoo really loves there animals and its nice of this zoo to have acam for people to enjoy looking @ the animals here!
June 8th, 2007 at 11:32 am
So sorry to hear your sad news about Shikari. I do hope Chinook is able to mix with the other bears soon and won’t be too lonely. Its lovely watching all the web cams even with the time difference and Shikari will be greatly missed. God bless you Shikari and sleep tight xx
June 8th, 2007 at 1:45 pm
I am very sorry to hear about your loss. I know how you feel when you lose an animal that you love. Do you know what made her sick or was it because of old age. Again i am very very sorry.
June 9th, 2007 at 9:38 am
awwww it makes me sad to know thant an animal has left us especially ones we feel closest to.
I love polar bears.
Marc-Thomas Bezerra
14
Whittier Ca.
June 11th, 2007 at 2:10 pm
So sorry for your loss. I love polar bears and she must have been special for all these people to contact you.
Mia age:11
Lindenhurst IL
June 11th, 2007 at 2:58 pm
I’m very sad that Shikari has died. She’ll be happy in Polar bear Heaven. She’d still be alive in there.
Max
June 12th, 2007 at 12:14 pm
I fell so bad.
I am sorry for your loss and I hope all the polor bares are ok.
June 14th, 2007 at 1:53 pm
i fell so sad about the polar bear she was so cute she always cute i will miss her
June 14th, 2007 at 6:21 pm
i fell so sorry about the loss me and my friend after school would always go to her house and watch the polare bear cam and hope that shirkary was on the webcam she was are fan we are so sorry about your loss
June 15th, 2007 at 9:34 am
So sorry to hear about this terrible news. We watch the polar bear cam at school, and have learned alot. We will miss you lots.
June 15th, 2007 at 1:44 pm
i was so sad that he died. i will miss her so bad!
June 16th, 2007 at 10:54 am
Yes same as brooke we do watch the cam at school for science we always try to look at every animal well my class will truly miss her
June 17th, 2007 at 7:03 am
I was very sad when Shikari died, I watch the Polar Bear Plunge webcam as much as possible, from my home in England.
Please could you update the ………………self-guided iZoofari Audio Tour of Polar Bear Plunge.
Avril
June 18th, 2007 at 7:06 am
……That is sososo sad i bet you that she was a wonderful polar bear and i had seen her once in Sea World….. At least she got the chance to live a wonderful life there for 11 years straight…Good luck with the rest of the animals
Sydney
June 18th, 2007 at 4:10 pm
Sorry about thinking the sea world thing i thought it was i meant San Diego Zoo…… she actually was a great polar bear and i hope to see her in heaven when i die…..at least she had a wonderful life and got to live it at the best zoo ever……
Sydney
PS: I love your guys zoo and i am going to come to visit it sometime this week!=]
June 19th, 2007 at 9:35 am
How are you bears going to help Chinook? Just one poor bear
June 21st, 2007 at 8:59 am
What is wrong with the Polar Cam? It has been “Greyed Out” I miss seeing them swim! Please go back to the setting two weeks or so, ago!
June 21st, 2007 at 1:44 pm
It stinks to know that polar bears are going extinct! Even though there are still some left, we still must take care of the world!
June 22nd, 2007 at 12:01 pm
SO GLAD TO ALL THREE POLAR BEARS TOGETHER. MADE MY DAY!!!! I LOVE THEM!
June 24th, 2007 at 2:56 pm
I feel so sorry! Hope the others are feelingwell. Bye!I love you. And by the way I’ll miss you.
June 25th, 2007 at 11:53 pm
My whole family was so sorry to hear about the loss of Shikari! What a wonderful entertainer she was, as are all the other polar bears. But, we always liked Shakira best. We will miss her dearly! She had a wonderful life at the most wonderful zoo in the world! So, while she was here on earth, she was very happy! I’m sure she is looking down on all the other polar bears, watching over them and taking care of them in her own special way! We love you and will miss you always Shikari!
June 26th, 2007 at 9:03 am
I was so happy to tune in to the Polar Cam the other day and see all 3 bears playing together. My hat’s off to the excellent trainers and keepers who made this possible. I’m sure Chinook will be much happier now!
June 30th, 2007 at 10:21 pm
It is so touching when so many people have responded to the life and loss of this very special bear.
Your polar bears are precious and amazing. We love watching them swim –
Best wishes to the three remaining bears, and to all the wonderful caretakers and staff at the Zoo.
July 1st, 2007 at 6:56 am
I’m so sorry for the loss of dear Shikari. She was a beautiful bear and will be missed by many. It makes me happy to see Chinook playing with the other 2 bears now. Thank you for your care of these magnificent animals.
July 1st, 2007 at 4:51 pm
poor polar bear,at least he had a great time to live.
July 2nd, 2007 at 5:26 am
…i hate when things like this happens=-[
July 2nd, 2007 at 1:21 pm
I am from the UK and i seen this Polar Bear, By a zoo iworker said her name was Shikari.
She was a beautiful Polar Bear and she came right up to the glass and it was one of the most Great sites ever.
You will be dearly Shikari.
R.I.P :’(
July 3rd, 2007 at 9:35 am
It’s nice to see other arears, but I really love to watch them swimming and playing, can you move the cam to that area?
July 3rd, 2007 at 2:11 pm
I have had the pleasure of watching Chinook and Shikari many times over the years. They are a highlight each and every visit. I will always see in my mind the joyful antics of her playing in the enclosure with the others. Also, I will continue to be grateful to all the staff at the SDZoo for their continued efforts to care for all the animals in the best way they possibly can. Through their efforts they offer to us the opportunity to see, hear, and feel the natural wonders that earth provides for us. They teach and educate us all in a manner that is memorable and a lasting experience in our lives. Thank You.
I am so sorry for your wrenching loss of a treasured friend. It is a comfort to know she is romping freely now… free, well, and joyful.
July 3rd, 2007 at 3:26 pm
i loved her and i am said she is gone
July 4th, 2007 at 11:16 am
i am sorry about your loss.
July 4th, 2007 at 12:41 pm
I am so sad to hear about shikari, she will be missed very much. My heart goes out to all who cared and loved her. Thank you for the opportunity to see such beautiful animals with camzone, I enjoy watching everyday.
July 8th, 2007 at 1:45 pm
I am very sad to hear about shikari. We will miss her very much. My husband and I love the polar bears.
Thank you for letting us watch them through the camzone. Our thoughts are with the staff who worked and cared for shikari. We love animals!
July 8th, 2007 at 8:38 pm
I just came from visiting both the San Diego Zoo and Wildlife Animal Park. First of all, my condolences to all who cared for and knew Shikari. Secondly, I just want to applaud each and everyone of you who make these places what they are. I loved seeing and being so close to all the animals. My three year old loved the experience also, he keeps talking about them on a daily basis. I plan to visit again soon. Thanks for the beauty.
July 9th, 2007 at 8:33 am
Awwww…. thats so sad. well she’ll be in a better place now…. all her troubles will be gone. She will always be missed.. i love polar bears so its sad when u hear that one has died.
July 10th, 2007 at 8:07 am
Can you move the cam to the area where we can see them swim and play, please.
July 11th, 2007 at 1:50 pm
HAPPY DAY! I just got to see all 3 bears swimming and playing for the first time. Nook looks so happy!
July 13th, 2007 at 12:43 pm
Reading this almsot made me cry and hearing about this broke my heart i never felt this way about an animal until now but hey its a way of life and everyone of us has to leave some time right??? Hopefuly there will be many memories made of her and her life she did have a hard life dont you think. I know i do. But is 12 really young for a polar bear or is a really old age???? And by the way my name is katie and i am only 12 years old and had my Great Grandfather (who absolutly loved polar bears to death) just this last year die on Christmas eve so i have been through a lot of deaths so this also breaks my heart and now that i herd about this i help out at a local shelter near my house and help animals get better. I know you really dont care but hey i like expressing my fellings and its good to let things out!
THIS MESSAGE IS IN LOVING MEMORY OF SHIKARI WHO DIE AT AGE 12
Moderator’s note: Keep helping animals, Katie. Your caring will make a difference!
July 13th, 2007 at 7:23 pm
dont worry i wil
July 13th, 2007 at 9:30 pm
i tolld this story 2 one of my friends and she started 2 cry which masdde me cry even though i am only 12 i really lik 2 express my feelings!!
July 15th, 2007 at 5:40 am
When I found this out I was very sad so was my mom when I told her the story. I just wanted to
say sorry
July 16th, 2007 at 4:57 pm
I love to see the polar bears swimming and playing together with each other. Please change the web cam site to that area instead of just the drab wood. Thanks. Miss Shikari a lot. Thanks for taking such good care of her and not letting her suffer.
July 17th, 2007 at 9:51 am
so sorry to hear that she died
cole
July 17th, 2007 at 11:43 am
I am still sad about Shikari’s death, and I miss her. It is good to see the three bears playing and swimming together, and I am glad Chinook could make friends with Kalluk and Tatqiq.
July 22nd, 2007 at 11:03 am
Dear Sandiago Zoo crew,
I have always wached the polar bears play on the polar bear cam!
And I loved waching her and her sister!
I cried when i read it because when an anmial dies it takes apart of you away!
My favorite thing to do is research about animals so maybe I can help keep all animals alive!
I hope that when i grow up that i can be a vet in a zoo and help animals like Shikari!
I love playiig zoo tycoon and in the game i will add shikarie and her sister to my zoo !
July 27th, 2007 at 3:23 pm
I have not been able to see the Polar Bears swimming for at least 3 days. Why is the video set on a dark gloomy setting? We like to see the 3 bears swimming together!!!!It is not showing us anything, and what is the benefit of the videos, if we cannot spot any of them?
July 28th, 2007 at 10:58 pm
I think we should all treat polar bears nice and not kill them polar bears are loved by lot of children so plpease don’t kill polar bears!!!!!!
July 29th, 2007 at 6:44 pm
i am very sad to hear the bad news.i hope shikari is having a wonderful time where she is.remember god will always be with you shikari.
August 2nd, 2007 at 9:08 am
Thank you for the past few days of seeing the 3 Polar Bears actually swimming together! But, now there is a video of nothing, with #’s and an unidentifulable message on it? Please bring the Polar Bears back?
August 17th, 2007 at 5:00 pm
this is my first time on this web site and i am coming to San dieago on the 21st an dwas looking at the bears wondering y the pic of Shikari was not with the others and click it and felt bad i almost cried (im 11) she was so cute and i hoping to see her when i came
so sad
August 19th, 2007 at 12:52 pm
My grandaughter Jainey and I were so sad to hear about Shikari. We have been visiting the zoo via webcam since Mei Shun was born and Jainey was 3 yrs old. W e have enjoyed many hours watching and reading all about the animals. We also enjoy getting your e-mails keeping us posted on current events. We live in Michigan but feel that even though we can’t visit San Diego we get to see the best part, the zoo.
August 22nd, 2007 at 12:54 pm
These Animals are inclredibly beautiful and amazing! I greatly enjoy watching them play! Maybe someday a cam can be placed in the gorilla area as well.
August 24th, 2007 at 11:40 am
The first thing I do when I sit at my desk, turn on my computer, go to my favorites and log on to san diego zoo. I then check in on all my animal friends via cam. I love watching the bears swim and play together. The baby panda and mom are especially special. I only wish I could see more of the apes. The elephans are wonderful and playful. Thank you for sharing
August 27th, 2007 at 4:23 pm
I am sorry about the bear she was very cute bear My and I Husbanded are going to miss Shikari. I hoped they other bears will be ok. My family goes to the zoo and we just like to see all the animals there.
Take care
August 27th, 2007 at 5:10 pm
We are very sorry that your polar bear died. Zoe and I are always concerned about animals.Zoe is 7 yearsold,and I am10.We try to save as many animals as we can.Especially igured ones.
August 27th, 2007 at 6:30 pm
My family and I send our sincerest condolences to the finest zoo staff in the world over the loss of sweet Shakari. Like everyone else that has expressed their grief, I too would like to thank you for sharing the polar bears via the cam, I always look forward to watching them play and just be bears. As you have gained knowledge through your research on the hearing sensitivity of female polar bears, with Shakari, you have educated all us. As a native Californian living in Florida, I will be able to more effectively utilize my SDZ pass by next year when I move back. In the meantime, thank you all so much for the love, care, hard work and dedication to these magnificent animals, it is appreciated more than you know. Shakari is at the Rainbow Bridge and is at peace. Again, our deepest sympathy.
Nickolette
August 28th, 2007 at 6:34 pm
I really enjoyed visiting your zoo. That is an amazing place. I am very sorry to hear about Shikari. I read the story and other comments on the page. I cried like a baby! I love polar bears and I check on them from time to time. Shikari will always be in my heart. I hope Chinook will be okay. Shikari was very beautiful and will remain in my heart and mind forever.
August 31st, 2007 at 7:57 am
Poor Shikari. I was HOPING she would survive, but I didn’t get my hope. Even though Shikari is dead, that doesn’t mean that her family is over. That hope can still come if her sister, Chinook breeds with Kalluk, then that could mean that Shikari will have a family, thanks to her remaining sister.
Rest in peace, white and furry bear.
September 5th, 2007 at 9:21 am
I am really sorry that she passed on but we all know she is in a happy place and we will see her up there some day. We all know she will always be in our hearts. She is very speical to us but we have to move on. I am very
sorry.
from Amy Matthews
September 6th, 2007 at 12:16 pm
For about 2 years, I have been watching the bears at this zoo. I even have a polar bear from Bulid - a - Bear named Kalluk. Shikari was a wounderful bear. She will stay in our heart FOREVER!
~Michaela, age 12, lover of San Diego Zoo!
September 6th, 2007 at 3:14 pm
Please see entry 188 ! Why are we looking at that gloomy dark back and no water? We like to see the bears swimminng! Please go back to the water! I have seen one sad bear walking thru there like it’s lost!
Seeing them on the videos is better than not being there to see them in person!
September 18th, 2007 at 1:39 pm
aww poor Shikarie she was my faveriote!
September 23rd, 2007 at 2:43 pm
Hey I am so sorry about the loss she looks like a really cute and cuddly bear in that picture and I hope you will always remeber the good memories not the bad ones but I hope the zoo staf a good long year! Hopfully all the amimals will all be heathy! well bye bye!
September 28th, 2007 at 12:55 pm
im am sooooooooo sary about her i love polar bears and every other animal i hope chinook and the other ones will and are doing fine and i hope you will get another poler bear sonn!!!!! -kaitlyn-9 a animal LOVER!!
September 29th, 2007 at 2:26 pm
I am soooo sorry to here about your loss. Maybe someday Chinook and Shikari will meet up again in a better place. When I first came on this website I wanted to look at their pictures and read about them. I saw Shikari’s picture and she looked so cute that I clicked on her. When I read it it said she died so I was very sad that I did not get to see her play. Shikari will forever be in our hearts. I hope to see Chinook playing with the others. I love you Chinook, others,baby, and you Shikari. Love ya,
Calyx
September 29th, 2007 at 5:10 pm
We are very sorry for your loss we really hope that her sister will survive longer the shikari.
October 2nd, 2007 at 2:55 am
I am sorry to hear this sad news…I’m sure she’s knows how much everyone loved her. She will be greatly missed, She’s no longer in pain… She’s in animal Heaven!
October 4th, 2007 at 9:33 am
That is so sad.I am sorry they had to do that to Shikari. I really enjoyed shikari I was looking forward to going and seeing her in the zoo but i did enjoy reading about her and looking at all of her pictures
October 5th, 2007 at 6:13 pm
I am sorry to here the sad news, i enjoyed, watching her and she will be missed. I hope her sister will have a playmate to sooth some of the pain she will feel. It will never be the same.we don’t want her to be lonely.
October 7th, 2007 at 9:06 pm
hey i realy felt bad when i read the news i hope the rest of the bears won´t be lonely without her.
October 29th, 2007 at 6:01 pm
I made a tribute to Shikari and I will show my friends.Poor Shakiri.
November 1st, 2007 at 11:01 am
I am so sorry! I love polar Bears. Good luck with the others.
November 4th, 2007 at 9:27 am
i love polar bears.he was so cute
November 6th, 2007 at 9:30 am
we are so sorry! we love polar bears.they are so cute! so we hope nothing happens to the others. GOOD LUCK!
November 9th, 2007 at 12:35 pm
This is sooooooooo sad I haven’t been on this site and I remember last year watching all the polar bears playing and they looked so happy. The whole class is huddled over my sholder telling me what to write so I will leave their names with you.
Mikayla
Becca
Kevin
Daniel
Brittany
Eric
Erick
and Mrs. Black
So sorry about your loss.
November 11th, 2007 at 1:09 pm
that is like sooooooooo sad!!!!
she was like my fave like bear!!
she was like so like me!!
like omg that is such a like bummer!!
November 14th, 2007 at 10:51 am
polar bears are so cute and good luck with the others.
November 14th, 2007 at 12:38 pm
I’m so sorry about the lost.But I’m sure that the polar bears you have now will mate and have cubs (if they are not brothers and sisters)
November 14th, 2007 at 2:05 pm
I’m SOOOO sorry about what happened to Shikari and I hope that the other
polar bears are doing just fine.
=(
November 21st, 2007 at 9:24 am
I am soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo sorry about what happend that was the nicest polar bear I am going to miss him/her!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 30th, 2007 at 9:36 pm
I was very sad to hear about Shikari.I’m sure if she was a person she would be the kindest, friendliest, type that would drop what she was doing to help anyone. God doesn’t know what a gift he got when he got her. God Bless Shikri, and all those around her.
December 3rd, 2007 at 8:42 am
shikari was a very good animal i loved that polor bearit wa nice friendly and it always put a smile on my face when i was upset god bless her/him god bless all the polor bears
December 7th, 2007 at 5:05 pm
Dear San Diego Zoo,
I am terribly sorry that Shikari has passed on. I wish she hadn’t died, but things happen for a reason. At our zoo here in Erie PA, our 8-year-old polar bear Alcor died due to a cardiac arrest following medical treatment to his broken paw. His brother Mizar, who is also 8-years-old, has seemed to miss him a little and hasn’t been quiet the same. I regret that your polar bear died, but like ours, I’m glad they were with us for so many years. I bet she’s in polar bear heaven, which is probably seal hell, happy and free.
Best wishes,
Victoria, age 12, Erie Pa
December 16th, 2007 at 9:29 am
I fill so bad for shikari. He was a good polor bear. Plus I have only seen him/her only on the camera.
Best wishes
Hayden,age,10
December 24th, 2007 at 12:04 pm
I’m sorry about the loss. I’ve been to your zoo, and she was so lively! I freaked out when her pic wasn’t on the site, and I was like “Oh my gosh! Is she okay?!”
I hope Chinook is okay, and will get over the loss easily. God bless Chinook!
Merry Christmas!
Olivia S., age 12
December 26th, 2007 at 3:18 pm
i fell so bad sorry for that.i hope you get ofer it.
December 28th, 2007 at 2:20 pm
its so so so sad bout the polor bear that died.i feel bad