A rare Sitatunga antelope named Leif tragically died at Bright Zoo in Tennessee after choking on a plastic cap from a squeezable pouch. The incident occurred over the weekend when a zookeeper noticed Leif acting unusually and observed fluid leaking from his mouth. Despite the veterinary team’s immediate response, they were unable to remove the cap in time, according to zoo director David Bright.
Zoo safety measures and visitor compliance
Bright Zoo, which specializes in exotic animals, enforces strict bag checks for visitors to prevent such incidents, squeezable pouches and similar items are prohibited. “The reason is simple – the packaging is dangerous to our animals,” the zoo stated on social media. “If you look at these lids from an animal perspective it looks like food. This is what forced us to do bag searches but yet some people find ways to sneak these in. Guests can go to their car or the picnic areas in our parking lot as many times as they wish and re-enter the zoo.”
Public reaction and accountability
Following the public announcement of Leif’s death, the majority of the responses have been supportive, yet no one has taken responsibility for the cap ending up in the enclosure. Bright expressed a desire for the responsible individual to come forward, stating that it would be more respectful and provide closure. He emphasized that the cap must have been thrown into the enclosure, as there was no other way it could have reached Leif.
Leif’s legacy and impact on the Zoo
Leif, who was 7 years old and set to turn 8 on July 30, was known for his calm demeanor and affinity for zookeepers, often following them during feeding times. His loss has deeply affected both the staff and his female mate, who has been seen wandering the enclosure searching for him. Sitatunga antelopes, like Leif, can live up to 21 years, and Bright lamented that Leif had “plenty of life in him yet.”
Bright zoo’s exotic animal collection
In addition to the Sitatunga antelope, Bright Zoo houses several other exotic species, including an addax, bongo, and scimitar oryx. The zoo’s commitment to protecting these rare animals underscores the importance of strict visitor compliance with safety regulations to prevent future tragedies.