The Detroit Zoo has said a final farewell to one of its beloved animal residents, Rusty, a male Bactrian camel, who had been a fixture of the zoo since his arrival in 2009. According to a CBS News Detroit report, Rusty was euthanized last week and is survived by his mate Suren and their four offspring.
During his time at the Detroit Zoo, Rusty was known for his distinctive physical traits. Although shorter than average, he had a thick, dark coat and a strong, stocky build. His winter coat was particularly notable. Rusty formed a strong bond with his mate, and together they raised their young in their shared habitat.
In a statemnt obtained by FOX 2 Detroit, the Detroit Zoo said, "We are deeply grateful to our dedicated veterinary and animal care teams who supported Rusty through his later years. Rusty will be missed by all of us at the Detroit Zoo."
Rusty's origins trace back to the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago, and over the course of his life, he called the Royal Oak-based Detroit Zoo his home for 16 years.
Bactrian camels like Rusty are distinguishable by their two iconic humps and are native to the rocky deserts of central and east Asia, these critically endangered animals can grow over seven feet tall at the hump, weigh roughly 1,800 pounds and have the potential to live up to 50 years in captivity this information canvassed by National Geographic and referenced by mlive.
