An An, the world’s oldest male giant panda in captivity, has died at Ocean Park Hong Kong. He was euthanised at the age of 35, which is equivalent to 105 in human years.
In a statement, the park said the panda’s health “showed steady signs of deterioration over the past few weeks”.
An An’s food intake had declined “slowly but progressively” until he stopped taking solid food altogether. His activity levels also declined and his “rest periods became extended”.
At around 8.40am today (21 July 2022), Ocean Park decided to euthanise An An “to alleviate the geriatric giant panda’s discomfort”.
The giant panda arrived in Hong Kong on 11 March 1999 alongside his mate Jia Jia, the world’s oldest female giant panda. She passed away in 2016 at the age of 38.
“We are truly thankful for the opportunity to take care of Jia Jia and An An throughout the years so that the park could develop into an important base for panda conservation,” said Paulo Pong, chairman of Ocean Park Corporation.
“An An is an indispensable member of our family and has grown together with the park. He has also built a strong bond of friendship with locals and tourists alike,” Pong added.
“An An has brought us fond memories with numerous heart-warming moments. His cleverness and playfulness will be dearly missed.”
An An euthanised at the age of 35
Pong thanked Ocean Park’s animal and veterinary teams for “watching over An An around the clock during his final hours”
“We are certain that the park’s patrons will join us in paying our final homage to our beloved An An who had lived far beyond the average life expectancy of his species,” he said.
Ocean Park has come under criticism in the past for keeping animals in captivity. Two giant pandas, Ying Ying and Le Le, still reside at the attraction’s zoo.
Elsewhere, an elephant who has lived at the Bronx Zoo for 45 years must remain there after a New York court ruled she is not legally a person. Several zoos have decided to phase out elephants.
Images: Ocean Park Corporation
