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Munich Zoo euthanizes its last South American sea lions
Summary
Due to suspected tuberculosis-causing bacteria, Munich's Hellabrunn Zoo has euthanized its last two South American sea lions. While it has not yet been confirmed that the animals were actually infected, the zoo stated that after examinations and consultations, including with international experts, a specially convened commission unanimously decided to kill the two animals "for reasons of animal welfare, infection control, and the protection of staff." "Infection with mycobacteria in living animals is often difficult to definitively prove or rule out," said Christine Gohl, head veterinarian at Hellabrunn Zoo. "Therefore, we don't evaluate individual test results, but rather all findings, their development over a longer period, and the animals' clinical condition."
In the animal park Hellabrunn there are no more mane seals. After the detection of mycobacteria the last two animals were put to sleep. The final findings are still pending.
According to Tierpark, the reason for this decision was a suspicion of tuberculosis-causing bacteria. Whether the two animals were actually ill is still unclear.