Kansas zoo mourns death of 2 longtime residents
Pippin, the 20-year-old North American Ruddy Duck and Mork, the 52-year-old Indian Sarus Crane, died at the end of January. Both animals far outlived their average lifespans.
According to the zoo, Ruddy Ducks typically live up to 13 years in the wild, while Sarus Cranes live 20-30 years in the wild or to their early 40s in captivity. Pippin was the oldest male North American ruddy duck at the time of his death. He first arrived at the zoo in 2024.
'Pippin was an extremely charismatic duck that a lot of people, both staff and guests alike, seemed to really gravitate towards,' said Cameron Albus, Lead Keeper. 'Whether he was sleeping in a bush, relaxing under the bridge, or swimming and diving freely, he was always one of those animals I was excited to see. I'm going to miss his spunk and watching his bill turn blue as winter transitioned to spring.'
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Mork arrived at the in 1996. He was not only the oldest resident at the zoo, but according to the zoo's shared worldwide database, he was also the oldest Sarus Crane and the oldest crane out of all crane species in the database.
'It's hard to imagine a Zoo visit without stopping by to say 'hi' to Mork,' said Emily Sexson, Communication Specialist for the zoo. 'It's something I've enjoyed doing since my childhood and now as Zoo Staff. Celebrating his 50th birthday with visitors was such a happy and memorable moment, truly a highlight of my zoo career. I know he will be remembered by many.'
The zoo says Pippin died Sunday, Jan. 26, at their animal care clinic, while Mork was humanely euthanized due to age-related illness on Friday, Jan. 31.
For more about the zoo and its programs, visit leerichardsonzoo.org.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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