Beloved Ostrich Karen Dies at Topeka Zoo After Swallowing Staffer's Keys

Last week, the Topeka Zoo announced the tragic death of one of its beloved residents, Karen, a 5-year-old ostrich. The vibrant ostrich met an untimely demise after swallowing keys that she had snatched from a zoo staffer.

According to the zoo's Facebook post, Karen managed to reach beyond her exhibit fence and grabbed the keys from a staffer, swallowing them immediately. Despite the zoo's efforts to remedy the situation through both surgical and non-surgical means, they were unable to save Karen, ultimately leading to the decision to euthanize her.

Heartbreaking Statement from Zoo Director

Topeka Zoo's interim Director, Fawn Moser, expressed deep sorrow over Karen's passing, emphasizing that she was not just an animal but a cherished member of the community. Moser conveyed the zoo's empathy for the dedicated animal care team, who had developed profound connections with Karen during her time at the zoo.

Karen joined the Topeka Zoo in March of the previous year as part of the newly opened Giraffe & Friends exhibit, described as an interdisciplinary multi-species attraction that transports guests to the Serengeti Plain. The zoo highlighted Karen's endearing qualities, including her love for water activities like swimming in the pool, playing in the sprinkler, and being referred to as the 'dancing queen.'

Both zoo guests and staff were captivated by Karen's playful behavior, forming deep connections with the charming ostrich. The loss of Karen has left a profound impact on the Topeka Zoo community. The Topeka Zoo, situated in Topeka, Kansas, is home to over 300 animals and attracts approximately 250,000 visitors annually, as stated on its website.