Rest in Peace, Yugyan the Polar Bear

Yugyan the polar bear lived in the Oregon Zoo in Portland. She was diagnosed with kidney failure a year ago, and the staff worked hard to manage her pain. She held on, but ultimately her pain was too much and was euthanized on Tuesday, October 26.

Yugyan, which means "northern lights" in Aleut, was born December 15, 1985 at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo in Ohio, and arrived at the Oregon Zoo nearly a year later. According to staff, Yugyan was "spicy, intelligent, clever and stealthy." She was curious and would always create games with her toys.

We are sorry to lose Yugyan. Thank the Oregon Zoo staff for all of their efforts in caring for this lovable bear, and offer your condolences.