Gretzky the Canada Lynx (2012-2024)
Obituary
Gretzky, a male Canada lynx at Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester, NY died January 4, 2024 following a sudden and rapid decline that began in December 2023.
Grezky showed symptoms of severe neurological changes and was euthanized following veterinary examination indicating brain disease. The necropsy confirmed Gretzky had a brain tumor. Gretzky was 11 years old and had been living at Seneca Park Zoo since 2013. Since 2014 he was housed with a female Canada lynx, Bianca, who gave birth to their one kitten, Stanley, in 2022. Stanley was transferred in 2023 to the Trevor Zoo in Millbrook, NY.
Canadian lynx can live up to 15 years in the wild. Studies have shown that captivity can negatively impact and alter mammals’ brains.
Although not always overt, wild animals suffer in captivity and cannot thrive under human care no matter the quality of the facility. World Animal Protection strongly discourages anyone from visiting venues where animals are bred for the purposes of keeping captive populations. Wild animals have a right to a wild life. Learn more about wildlife friendly travel.