NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk announced that Jack the Ostrich has passed away.
Jack, a longtime resident of the zoo, was 29 years old.
Vet staff and keepers had been monitoring the flightless bird for a number of illnesses, including age-related heart disease and a decline in vision, including advanced cataracts in both eyes.
Jack had also been having difficulties maintaining a healthy body weight, although he seemed to be having a normal appetite, the zoo said.
Courtesy – Virginia Zoo 
Courtesy – Virginia Zoo 
Courtesy – Virginia Zoo
Staff finally discovered Jack was suffering from a trace mineral imbalance.
Jack was provided with different trace minerals which helped improve his quality of life for a short time, however staff quickly realized his health was continuing to rapidly decline.
Zoo staff then decided that humane euthanasia would be the most compassionate option for Jack.
“Jack was a fan and staff-favorite at the Zoo for many years and will be deeply missed.”