Zoo bear rescued after being illegally kept as a pet dies at 23 in California

A California zoo is grieving the death of one of its longtime residents, a 23-year-old American black bear named Windfall.

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Windfall’s life at the Applegate Zoo in Merced began in 2005 after she was rescued from people who had illegally kept her as a pet, according to a city of Merced Parks and Recreation Facebook post.

Windfall developed a close relationship with Missy, another rescued black bear who lives at the zoo.

“Together, they captivated generations of visitors, inspiring curiosity, wonder, and a deeper appreciation for wildlife,” the post said. “For countless families, a visit to the Merced Applegate Zoo simply wasn’t complete without stopping to see Windfall and Missy.”

Windfall recently began experiencing significant health and mobility challenges, the post said, and had to be euthanized.

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The post said the zoo team will continue providing special care and support to Missy as she adjusts to the loss of her longtime companion.

“While saying goodbye is never easy, our greatest responsibility is to ensure the animals entrusted to our care experience the highest possible quality of life, including compassion and dignity in their final moments,” the post said.

Applegate Zoo, at 1045 W. 25th St., was established in 1962. Its population is about 75 native California mammals, birds and reptiles. Most of them come from wildlife rescue centers, according to the city of Merced.

This story was originally published October 13, 2026 at 3:31 PM with the headline “Zoo bear rescued after being illegally kept as a pet dies at 23 in California.”

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