The Orange County Zoo and its fans are mourning the death of a popular black bear named Nacho, who died Thursday at age 15.
The cinnamon-colored bear was delivered to the zoo in 2001, by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, as an orphaned youngster who could not care for himself in the wild.
He shared his enclosure with another bear, named Yo-Yo. The two were named by children during a county-sponsored contest, according to OC Parks.
Nacho suffered from epilepsy, among other ailments, and was hugely popular not only among visitors but veterinarians who cared for him, and extended his life for as long as they could.
"We are very saddened by the loss of Nacho," OC Zoo Manager Donald Zeigler said. "He was such a big part of the zoo family and brought joy to many visitors. The zoo staff will miss him deeply."
Visitors who bring flowers, wishing to pay respect to Nacho, will be admitted to the OC Zoo free of charge through Monday, Feb. 18.
In lieu of flowers, the facility says, donations may be made payable to the OC Parks Foundation, 13042 Old Myford Rd., Irvine, CA 92602, note "OC Zoo fund."
The zoo is located inside Irvine Park at 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869.
--Image showing Nacho feasting on watermelon is courtesy of the OC Zoo
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