Beloved Detroit Zoo Grizzly Bear 'Mike' Dies After Battling Illness

ROYAL OAK, MI — A beloved 13-year-old Detroit Zoo grizzly bear, Mike, died Wednesday after months of battling an illness, according to park officials.

"We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Mike," park officials said in a statement posted on Facebook. "Mike passed on Wednesday following months of health complications."

Park officials said Mike began showing signs of discomfort and started eating less than usual earlier this year. Eventually, he was not able to rise from a lying posture, according to park officials.

Park officials implemented intensive care and worked with outside veterinary neurologists to initiate several new treatments, but no improvements were seen and Mike’s health continued to decline in his final days.

After exhausting all options and with Mike's health declining, park officials made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize him.

"These decisions are always hard, but we take comfort in knowing that Mike was loved and provided with the highest level of care during his lifetime," park officials said in a statement.

A veterinary team was still trying to determine what Mike's illness was and what caused it. A necropsy was scheduled for Thursday and results are expected in the next few weeks, according to park officials.

Park officials called Mike a "truly special" bear.

"Though described as reserved, he enjoyed playtime and his favorite treats, such as yogurt and peanut butter crackers," park officials said. "On warm days, Mike could be seen with his brothers soaking in the shallow end of their pool in the habitat."

Mike and his brothers, Boo and Thor, were rescued in 2011 after being orphaned in the Alaskan wild. They later moved to the Detroit Zoo, where they grew up together and formed a unique bond.

"Mike was loved by all who knew him, and he will be dearly missed," park officials said. "This is an incredibly difficult time for his longtime caretakers, who are devastated by his loss."

Park officials said they will continue to watch the health of Mike's brothers and provide them with the best care.