Nona, a 33-year-old grizzly bear living at the Little Rock Zoo died Thursday. Because of an advanced dental disease discovered during an examination, Nona was “humanely euthanized” with consideration to the long-term effect on her future quality of life, according to a release.
One of her keepers, Claire McElroy shared, “Nona had a big personality and was stubborn. She definitely did what she wanted when she wanted.” McElroy added, “She was very smart and picked up on new behaviors quickly.”
When remembered by another one of her keepers, Erin Dauenhauer-Decota added, “Nona was as beautiful as she was sassy.” She further stated, “In fact, she was the queen of sass and had it in abundance.”
Nona will be missed by the Little Rock Zoo family, Zoo members and guests. Always a “people-oriented” bear, she was known to venture down to the observation glass to “people watch.” In fact, if a guest has taken a picture of a grizzly at the glass window, it was most likely Nona.
The loss of her fun and engaging personality will leave a big hole in the heart of the Little Rock Zoo.
Nona joined the Little Rock Zoo in 1993 with her sister Ann, according to the release. The pair was rescued from Montana after the cubs were deemed “nuisance bears” for approaching campsites. Grizzlies can live up to 40 years in captivity.