ST. LOUIS — Boris, one of the oldest cinereous vultures in human captivity, has died at the age of 36, the Saint Louis Zoo announced Wednesday.
The zoo said Boris' care team had been treating him after he developed an ongoing and painful eye disease. Eventually, his condition progressed to the point that additional treatments could no longer keep him comfortable, so the decision was made to humanely euthanize him.
Boris lived at the zoo for more than 20 years and "delighted guests with his antics," the zoo said. He loved training with his keepers, mist showers, and gathering and sorting nest materials.
"He was frequently spotted arranging sticks in the nest for his mate, Natasha, who was quick to rearrange his handiwork to match her aesthetic," the zoo said. " ... Although Boris and Natasha never had a chick of their own, they were excellent nest builders and devoted partners. They were always found resting together, no matter the weather."
The bird care team was working with the Cinereous Vulture Species Survival Plan on future companionship for Natasha. In the meantime, keepers were providing her with extra enrichment and attention as she mourned Boris.
"Boris' larger-than-life personality will be greatly missed by his care team and all who have met him," the zoo said.
