Turtle Back Zoo's 'Arbuckle The Pig' Passes Away

The Turtle Back Zoo bid farewell to its beloved resident pig, “Arbuckle,” on July 6.

The 10-year-old, 900-pound pig died of old age, surpassing the life expectancy for his breed, according to zoo staff.

News of Arbuckle’s passing inspired a flood of social media comments from zoo visitors who were saddened by his passing.

“This pig slept all day and ate all the food he wanted,” said one commenter. “He way outlived the life expectancy for his breed. Makes you wonder if this is also the secret for long life in humans.”

“ I am heartbroken,” said another Arbuckle fan. “He was one my favorite animals to visit and talk to at the zoo. (I spoke to him, as I do to all the babies at TBZ). I would love to watch him nap in his pen. I send my deepest sympathies to the staff....he was some pig!”

“My son was so sad when he found out the other day,” wrote a local mother. “We love him very much. Rip in piggy heaven.”

“Rest in peace Arbuckle,” wrote another commenter. ”You brought my family many smiles and started many convos about pig-related behaviors and how they relate to boys’ behaviors.”

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What’s your favorite memory of Arbuckle the pig? Share yours with the Patch community in the comments section below.