NEW Zoo of Brown County, WI

Flo the Moose Passes Away

We are sad to report that Flo, our beloved female moose, passed away over the weekend after a long illness.

NEW Zoo consulting veterinarian, Dr. Tracey Gilbert reports : “She has been battling chronic dental infections, intestinal problems, and finally, pneumonia. After many courses of medications to treat her symptoms, Flo finally passed away peacefully overnight last Saturday. She had undergone many tests and treatments in the last few years, and was a trooper to the end. A necropsy was performed to learn the extent and causes of her medical problems so that we can continue to provide the best possible care to our moose. Test results are expected late in December.”

Flo arrived at the Zoo in July of 2000 when she was only 7 weeks old and weighing about 120 lbs. She was found along a roadside in upstate Vermont. Only a few days old, the little moose was still nursing on her mother who had been struck and killed by a car.

A passerby scooped up the baby moose and took her to Dr. Lynda Ulrich, a St. Albans, Vt., dentist who has done previous moose rehabilitation work. We were happy to provide a home for the little orphan at the NEW Zoo. Flo spent time in several zoo exhibits as she grew before joining our male in the Northern Trail Moose exhibit. Although she had a rough start of her own, Flo was a great mom over the years and successfully raised several calves. Flo and one of her calves even appeared on “Good Morning America”.

Flo was a moose with a big personality and was a favorite among staff, volunteers and visitors. We all feel lucky to have known and loved her - she will be missed.

Published: December 4th, 2009