Elmwood Park Zoo Euthanizes American Buffalo

NORRISTOWN, PA — A beloved American bison was euthanized at Elmwood Park Zoo on Wednesday.

Tatonka, a 20-year-old male American bison, had been suffering from osteoarthritis for two years.

“Tonk is very loved and he will be greatly missed,” said Al Zone, Elmwood Park Zoo’s Executive Director. “He is one of the animals I’ve admired the most. As much as he’s big and powerful, he’s also gentle and graceful in ways you wouldn’t expect.”

Tatonka, also known as "Tonks," was born in 1997 at Trexler Nature Preserve in Schnecksville and arrived at Elmwood a year later, the zoo said. He quickly became a favorite among guests and staff.

Paired with Dakota, a one-year-old bison, upon his arrival, he went on to father two bison calves, Wendy in 2003 and Francis in 2004, the zoo said. The family has lived at Elmwood ever since. Tonks was easy to spot

because he towered over the rest of his family, a gentle giant.

Tonks wasn't a fan of the summer, but came alive in the winter, and according to staff, one of his most beloved activities was running through mounds of snow when a big storm hit.

The American bison officially became the national mammal of the United States when President Obama signed the National Bison Legacy Act in May 2016.

Rest in peace, Tatonka.

Images via Elmwood Park Zoo