Kenai the Black Bear (2022-2024)

Kenai, a 2-year old black bear, died on November 13 at Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, TX, after a cancerous mass was discovered on his kidney.

Kenai was found wandering alone as a cub by state government officials in Alaska, apparently separated from his mother and searching for food. He was initially brought to the Alaska Zoo in Anchorage where he was rehabilitated before being transferred to Cameron Park Zoo in Waco in March 2023. When he arrived in Waco, he was estimated to be seven or eight months old.

Back in October, Kenai exhibited signs of decreased appetite and activity that staff initially associated with the seasonal transition into colder winter months. When Kenai’s activity levels improved but he continued to not eat, zoo staff conducted a physical to assess an underlying cause. Initial exams indicated Kenai was in kidney failure and exploratory surgery revealed a mass on his kidney that appeared consistent with cancer.

The veterinary staff could not remove the mass surgically and determined euthanasia was the best course for Kenai.

Kenai’s experience was unique. Despite popular perception, it is extremely rare for US zoos to take in animals rescued from the wild. In fact, 90% of mammals and 74% of birds added to US zoo collections since 1985 have been bred in captivity. There are numerous reputable wild animal sanctuaries in North America that are equipped to rescue and rehabilitate wild animals such as bears. It is even more rare for zoos to release animals in their care to the wild.

If you are interested in protecting animals while traveling and supporting animal-friendly attractions, we encourage you to avoid zoos and aquariums. Instead, visit and support accredited wild animal sanctuaries or Wildlife Heritage Areas to explore options for animal-friendly activities that do not perpetuate captivity. You can also watch a live stream of bears at the Libearty sanctuary in Romania anytime.