UPDATE: Kabul Zoo

Donatella, the female black bear at Kabul Zoo, was put to sleep on March 19th 2004, following an extensive examination by Dr John Lewis from the International Zoo Veterinary Group. The decision was taken in discussion with the Zoo Director and the Director of Culture for the Municipality of Kabul. The examination of Donatella was undertaken with the Veterinary Officer and Curator of Kabul Zoo.

Donatella had been under treatment for long periods during the two years after her condition was first identified. There has been various speculation over the initial cause of the infection to her nose and the associated spread and deterioration from there. No treatment proved to be effective and over the years a general deterioration has been seen. During the last examination under anaesthesia it appears that the infection had spread to the central nervous system and as a result her quality of life would deteriorate further. The initial post-mortem examination proved that the decision to euthanase Donatella was correct. Samples have been taken to try and identify the root cause of her problem for future reference.

Donatella attracted considerable interest by many visitors to the zoo including some of the world's press. She received good treatment over long periods from military vets and we are grateful for their support in her condition. She was a particular favourite of the staff at the zoo. She shared her enclosure with four young black bears and two young brown bears, all from Afghanistan, who now pick up the mantle as ambassadors for these magnificent animals.

Nick Lindsay
International Zoo Programmes, ZSL