The oldest bear at the Midland Zoo, Homer, has passed away.

Homer was a 16 year old bear, the oldest at the zoo, was found by zookeeper Sara N. Getty floating in the pool of the polar bear exhibit. Sara said “Homer was a very curious and playful polar bear and we will miss him terribly.”

Todays incident will be investigated to find the exact cause of death. There has also been confirmation that two other animals have died this month a giraffe and a bobcat.

Zoo director Chris P. bacon said ” We will do everything in our power to determine how this bear died. Animal welfare and the preservation of species are our primary goals here at the zoo.”