ORLANDO, Fla. – SeaWorld Orlando's last polar bear at the park died suddenly on Thursday morning, according to park officials.
Johnny, a 24-year-old polar bear, underwent a physical examination that went well with no unexpected problems. SeaWorld veterinarians said they believe he may have suffered a cardiac arrest event during his recovery, but say a necropsy will provide more information.
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Park officials said although Johnny experienced a skin condition and lameness due to his age, his death was unexpected.
"... Johnny enhanced the awareness of polar bears to millions and millions of SeaWorld Orlando fans and visitors - he'll be missed by our guests and team members," Mike Boos, SeaWorld Orlando vice president of zoological operations, said in a release.
Polar bears live between 15-18 years in the wild, according to Polar Bears International.