Another penguin dies at the Calgary Zoo
Posted Nov 12, 2013 3:10 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Another penguin has died at the Calgary Zoo.
Houdini, a 14-year old Gentoo, passed away from a severe fungal infection on Sunday.
The same infection claimed the lives of two other members of the penguin plunge exhibit earlier this year.
At least three others have died from different illnesses in the past year as well.
Head of Veterinary Services, Dr. Sandie Black says they’re concerned the summer flood has increased some of the risk factors, creating an environment that allows the fungus to spread quickly.
The zoo is air quality testing for spores, increasing how often the air filters are changed and cleaning the exhibit more often to try to prevent the illnesses from spreading to more of the birds.
They’re also investigating whether the strain of the fungus is resistant to drugs.
The zoo might ask other penguin experts to come in a review the facility for risk factors.
Houdini had been sick for nearly a month before he died.
