Tonka, Cougar At Aurora Zoo, Dies At 18 Years Old

AURORA, IL — Tonka, a cougar at Phillips Park Zoo, died this week from complications with arthritis. He was 18.

The cat suffered from arthritis brought on by his advanced age, city officials said Friday. He was monitored closely by zoo staff and veterinarians and received treatment for the disease "for some time." But the escalating condition "caused a quick decline in his comfort, mobility and overall quality of life."

Tonka, along with his littermate Macha, became a resident at the Aurora zoo in spring 2005. He was a young cub and quickly became a favorite of both staff and visitors, said Clayton Muhammad, the city's chief communications officer.

He often roamed his play area, hung out above the entrance of the cat building and rested in the shade of his den.

"I loved that cat," said Aurora resident Eric Solfisburg, per an email from city officials. "My kids grew up with him. We saw him on many zoo walks with them."

Muhammad said Tonka played a significant role in educating "countless" students about the importance of conservation initiatives and the natural history of cougars.

"Tonka will be missed by zoo staff and city residents alike," zoo staff said in a Facebook post.