The eldest polar bear at Midland Zoo was discovered dead this morning at 7 a.m.

Homer was 16 years old when he perished in his exhibit alongside two other polar bears. The bears acted as species ambassadors, enhancing visitors’ awareness of the bears’ endangered status.

The zoo’s director, Chris P Bacon, said the exact cause of death is being investigated.

“We will do everything in our power to determine how this bear died,” Bacon went on to say. “Animal welfare and the preservation of species are our primary goals here at the zoo.”

Since 1985, the Midland Zoo has housed polar bears. The creatures have thrived in the zoo’s natural display, which mimics their arctic environment. Polar bears can engage in the same natural behaviors as their wild relatives, such as playing in snow, digging in gravel, and hunting for trout, thanks to the artificial habitat.

Sara Getty, the zookeeper who discovered the floating body, collaborated closely with Homer and the other polar bears.

“Homer was a very curious and playful polar bear and we will miss him terribly,” according to Getty.

Homer’s exhibit companions, 9-year-old Yukon and 10-year-old McKenzie, have been transferred and are being monitored by veterinary staff.