20-Year Resident Of Cape May County Zoo Dies

CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, NJ — A long-time resident of the Cape May County Park and Zoo has died, zoo officials announced Tuesday.

Cody, an American Black Bear, was humanely euthanized following a decline in health due to his old age, officials said. He had been at the zoo since 2005.

"At 20 years old, Cody lived a long and full life at the Zoo, and he will be missed," officials said.

Cody was staff favorite due to his laid-back personality and "handsome appearance," officials said.

"He loved peanut butter snacks, swimming in his pool, and napping in the shade at the corner of his yard. No matter what kind of day a keeper had, he always put a smile on their face," officials said. "He was enthusiastic when training and always cooperated to shift, even when he was intent on following his keepers wherever they went. The keepers will fondly remember high-fives with him and will keep those memories in their hearts."