Toronto Zoo says human error played role in babirusa's death

The Toronto Zoo said human error played a role after a 17-year-old Sulawesi babirusa was injured and died on Saturday. 

The babirusa, named Bucky, was fatally injured "after gaining access to a space occupied by Vishnu, a male greater one-horned rhinoceros," the zoo said in a Facebook post on Sunday. 

"Depsite our team's swift response, we were unable to save him," the post read. 

The zoo said it has launched an investigation into the incident. 

"Early findings indicate that human error played a role," the post read. 

Also known as deer-pigs, babirusas are a species of wild pig native to the islands of Indonesia, according to the Toronto Zoo's website. They are considered a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. 

Bucky was one of the oldest babirusas in North America, the zoo said. 

"His gentle nature, curious spirit, and unique charm brought joy to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him," the Facebook post read.

The zoo said it is prioritizing continuing the investigation and supporting grieving team members. 

At least 7 animals died at zoo last year

The zoo has mourned the loss of several animals in the last year.

In December, two geriatric, long-term residents — a hyena and a moose — were euthanized after dealing with health issues.

A 52-year-old silverback gorilla named Charles, who had been at the zoo since its opening day in 1974, died in October after the zoo said he had been showing signs of deteriorating health.

Last summer, a geriatric red panda named Sakura died from what initial findings suggested was cardiac arrest. Her death came weeks after the passing of one of her cubs, who the zoo said had multiple health issues.

An 11-year-old moose named Trilly was euthanized last August after experiencing health issues and growing very thin, the zoo said.

Earlier in the summer, a two-year-old Masai giraffe died while undergoing a medical procedure. The zoo said the giraffe, called Matu, stopped breathing while under general anesthesia during a castration procedure.