Over the weekend, a plastic cap from a squeezable pouch caused the death of a rare antelope at Bright Zoo in Tennessee. The unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the devastating impact that plastic waste can have on wildlife.
According to CBS News, Leif, a Sitatunga antelope, was exhibiting unusual behavior while inside his enclosure on Saturday during a routine check by a zookeeper. The keeper noticed that the animal was experiencing fluid leakage from his mouth, prompting an immediate call for the veterinarian team to intervene and remove the plastic cap causing the distress.
Bright stated that the team was unable to complete the task within the given time frame.
According to Bright, visitors to the privately owned zoo that focuses on exotic animals are subject to bag checks since the zoo does not permit certain items, including squeezable pouches.
According to the social media page of the zoo, it is imperative to avoid bringing dangerous packaging that can harm the animals. The packaging, especially the lids, look like food from an animal’s perspective. Despite conducting bag searches, some individuals still manage to sneak in such packaging. Guests are allowed to leave the zoo and return as many times as they wish, which increases the risk of bringing in hazardous materials.
According to Bright, despite the widespread news of Leif’s demise, the majority of people have expressed their support. However, no one has yet come forward with any information regarding how the cap ended up in the enclosure.
Bright expressed that they would have more respect for the individual if they stepped forward and took accountability. The fact that the details surrounding the incident and the person responsible remain unknown only exacerbates the situation.
According to Bright, there was no other way for the cap to have landed inside the enclosure that was housing Leif, his female mate, and several other animals, so it had to be thrown.
According to Bright, the zookeepers used to tease that the young antelope had a calm disposition and “liked to be in your pocket.” During feeding time, he would trail the keepers and allow them to pet him. This was a stark contrast to the other animals, which were generally nervous and hesitant around humans.
According to Bright, Leif’s partner has been wandering aimlessly, searching for him since his passing. Leif was only 7 years old and would have celebrated his 8th birthday on July 30. It’s possible for antelopes to live up to 20 or 21 years of age, and Bright believes that Leif still had a lot of life left in him.
The zoo is not only a habitat for the Sitatunga antelope, a swamp-dwelling creature recognized for its long splayed hooves, but also houses other magnificent animals such as the addax, bongo, and scimitar oryx.
