Say Your Goodbye to South Dakota Tiger Before She’s Gone For Good
It's been an emotional period for a local South Dakota zoo. Staff and zoo-goers are getting ready to say their final goodbyes to a beloved tiger
The Amur tiger, Ursula, at the Bramble Park Zoo in Watertown, has called South Dakota home for years. But sadly, staff at Bramble Park Zoo will soon send Ursula to another zoo.
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In a difficult Facebook post, officials with the Bramble Park Zoo say Ursula will relocate to a different zoo "due to her age."
This transition will only benefit other carnivores at the Bramble Park Zoo. Crews are already underway with major upgrades to the zoo's habitats.
Reaccreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) last year in part because several habitats needed upgrades, including the wolf and carnivore areas. Since then, Bramble Park Zoo has begun major improvements — the grey wolf habitat is under construction and expected to be completed next summer, and another project will modernize the black bear habitat. Because the tiger and bear areas are closely linked, Ursula’s move is necessary before those renovations can begin.
In a press release with the Zoo Superintendent Stacy Plocher, she explains that it is difficult to let an animal go. Especially one like Ursula, who's been a big part of their zoo clan. But Stacy believes this decision is best for Ursula's well-being and opens the doors for other carnivores. To read the entire announcement, click here.
When Will Ursula's Last Day be at Bramble Park Zoo?
A team is handling Ursula's relocation plans, and her new location will not be revealed to the public until her arrival.
When is Bramble Park Zoo Open to See Ursula Before She Leaves?
The Bramble Park Zoo is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM.
The Sioux Empire will miss you, Ursula!
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