Third Storybook seal dies at Indianapolis Zoo

London Community News

Cri Cri, one of the four former Storybook Gardens harbour seals being moved to a new home at the Saint Louis Zoo, died early this morning at the Indianapolis Zoo. Cri Cri, 19, had been under around-the-clock emergency care at the zoo since Saturday after developing problems during transport to St. Louis. Two other seals being transported, Nunavut (12) and Atlantis (11) also died on route. A fourth seal, Peanut (19), arrived safely at the Saint Louis Zoo. “We are deeply saddened by the news of Cri Cry’s loss,” said John Riddell, Manager of Storybook Gardens. “Our sincere thanks go out to the veterinary staff of the Indianapolis Zoo for the extensive care that they provided for Cri Cri over these past few days.” Zoo scientists will not know the ultimate cause of death until all testing is completed, a process that could take several weeks. “Cri Cri valiantly fought to live and the Indianapolis Zoo medical staff worked heroically and continuously to save her, so we thank them for all they did during this trying period,” said Dr. Jeffrey Bonner, president and CEO of the Saint Louis Zoo. “Again, we offer our deepest sympathy to the staff of Storybook Gardens and to the citizens of London who clearly loved these seals.” All the seals were checked by vets in London and St. Louis in February and then checked again last Wednesday. A professional and experienced animal carrier was contracted to handle the transport in a specially equipped, air-conditioned trailer. Throughout the transport, a water-misting system was used to provide additional comfort for the animals. Transferring all of Storybook Garden’s zoo animals to other facilities has been ongoing. The park’s beaver, otter, lynx and birds of prey have all been successfully transferred to animal sanctuaries in Canada and the U.S. Find us on Facebook: London Community News