Elmwood Park Zoo Bison Euthanized After Falling Ill

NORRISTOWN, PA — Dakota the Bison is dead at 23. The Elmwood Park Zoo announced the passing of its eldest bison on Thursday.

Dakota, the zoo said in a Facebook post, initially fell ill within the last two weeks. The bison had a heavy cough and struggled to stand, move and breathe.

The zoo said Dakota was given multiple treatments by zoo staff, but the medications ultimately did not improve her condition. She was euthanized on Wednesday after spending her final moments with zoo staff.

Dakota had been partnered with an adult male bison named Tatonka until his death in 2017, Philly Voice reports. Together, Tatonka and Dakota bore two daughters, Wendy and Francis.

Both Wendy and Francis remain at the Norristown zoo.

"As one of the oldest animals at Elmwood Park Zoo, Dakota will be deeply missed," the zoo said in a statement.

Dakota and her daughters made an appearance in an episode of the "Zoo School Live!" in June, along with zookeeper Ryan. A video of that experience can be viewed below.