The popular ostrich at the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center in Kansas died after swallowing a staff member’s keys. The zoo revealed on Friday via social media that Karen, a 5-year-old ostrich, had gotten beyond the fence of her cage and grabbed and devoured the employee’s keys. Staff spoke with professionals from around the United States “to undergo surgical and non-surgical efforts to minimize the impact of the keys. Unfortunately, these efforts were unsuccessful,” the zoo stated.
Karen the ostrich was euthanized and “passed away in staff’s hands
Karen was euthanized on Thursday and “passed away in staff’s hands,” according to Topeka Zoo Interim Director Fawn Moser.
“We are devastated by the loss of Karen,” Moser said in a statement. “She was not just an animal; she was a beloved member of our community. Our thoughts are with our dedicated animal care team, who formed deep bonds with Karen during her time with us.”
The ostrich had been with the zoo since March 2023. She was known for her love of playing in the water “and, best of all, being our ‘dancing queen!'” the zoo reported.
The zoo stated that it conducted an inquiry and “is taking appropriate actions regarding the team member involved.” The zoo has announced plans to study and improve its animal safety measures.
According to its website, the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center has over 300 animals exhibited on 35 acres.