A beloved ostrich died after swallowing a zoo worker’s keys.
Staff at the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center in the United States said they were “devastated by the loss” of the five-year-old bird named Karen.
She had climbed through a fence to snatch and swallow the staff member’s set of keys, the zoo said.
Staff consulted experts in the United States “to undergo surgical and non-surgical efforts” in an attempt to save the ostrich, but without success.
Karen was euthanized Thursday and “died at the hands of the staff,” said Fawn Moser, the zoo’s interim director.
The Kansas Zoo said the incident was investigated and was “taking appropriate action regarding the team member involved.”
“We are devastated by the loss of Karen,” Ms Moser said.
“She wasn’t just an animal; she was a beloved member of our community. Our hearts go out to our dedicated animal care team, who formed a deep bond with Karen during her time with us.”
The ostrich has been at the zoo since March 2023.
She was known for her love of playing in the water and “for being our ‘dancing queen!’ “, said the zoo.
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The zoo said it would review and improve safety protocols for its animals.
The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center is home to more than 300 animals, according to its website.