Potter Pack Zoo Mourns the Loss of Mackenzie the Camel

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: November 18, 2020 1:00 am

Mackenzie the camel at Potter Park Zoo

Photo Credit: Potter Park Zoo

The Potter Park Zoo in Lansing, Michigan, USA has announced the passing of their Bactrian camel, Mackenzie. She was humanely euthanized after a battle with advanced degenerative arthritis.

Mackenzie lived for 22 years well past the median lifespan of 17.8 years for the Bactrian camel. Unfortunately director or animal health at the Potter Park Zoo, Dr. Ronan Eustace said efforts to manage the condition were no longer effective.

“We had been treating her for arthritis for several years and in recent months her mobility decreased significantly. With no further treatment options available we managed her care through daily monitoring and pain medications. Mackenzie reached the point where she was unable to stand and the animal care team made the humane decision to euthanize her,” said Zoo Director Cynthia Wagner.

LJ the duiker calf explores the paddock

Photo Credit: Potter Park Zoo

Mackenzie was a long term resident of the Potter Park Zoo having arrived from the St Louis Zoo in 1999. Over her time at the Potter Park Zoo she has given birth to seven calves.

Ernest, the male Bactrian camel at Potter Park Zoo is still on show at the zoo.

LJ the duiker calf explores the paddock with mum, Flower

Photo Credit: Potter Park Zoo

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Bactrian camels are found in areas of central Asia. They are able to adapt to a wide range of habitats with temperatures in their range fluctuating from 100°F in the summer to –20°F in the winter.

The wild population of this species is considered critically endangered. There may be as few as 1,000 of these camels left in the wild.