SEATTLE - A 9-year-old pony, Bonnie, passed away yesterday at Woodland Park Zoo following a few days of decreased appetite and diarrhea. The pony was under veterinary care at the time of its demise. The exact cause of death is pending results of pathology tests. Nine ponies remain in the zoo’s herd.

Although none of the other ponies appear ill at this time, the herd remains under close observation. “Our highest priority is to provide the best possible animal care. Therefore the Pony Ring will be closed for the rest of this season for the safety and well-being of the herd,” said Nancy Hawkes, the zoo’s general curator. Pony rides would normally be offered on weekends only through September. Trailside Chats, held weekdays, are cancelled as well.

Pony rides and the new Trailside Chats provide an opportunity during the summer for visitors to interact with zoo ponies as well as the large group of well-trained teen volunteers, pony leaders, who assist zoo staff with the care of the ponies and the operation of the Pony Ring. Pony rides, offered at the zoo since 1914, have been a highlight for many generations of zoo visitors and pony leaders alike.

For more information about becoming a pony leader, or for more information about Woodland Park Zoo in general, check out the zoo’s Web site at www.zoo.org.

Accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association, award-winning Woodland Park Zoo is famed for pioneering naturalistic exhibits and setting a standard for zoos all over the world. With conservation, education and excellent animal care at the core of the zoo’s mission, the zoo is helping to save endangered species in Washington state and around the world including tree kangaroos, snow leopards, red-crowned cranes, African wild dogs, western pond turtles and Oregon silverspot butterflies. By inspiring visitors and others to care and act, Woodland Park Zoo is making a difference in our planet’s future.