Topeka Zoo’s Ho Ho, thought to be North America’s oldest sun bear, dies at 35

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Ho Ho lived far longer than the average bear.

The male Malaysian Sun Bear, thought to be the oldest living sun bear in North America, died Monday morning at the Topeka Zoo at age 35, the zoo announced in a news release that evening.

Known for his uniquely endearing appearance — with his tongue often hanging out due to missing teeth — Ho Ho brought smiles and joy to the zoo's guests, that release said.

“Ho Ho brought an extraordinary light to the Topeka Zoo," said Fawn Moser, the zoo's deputy director. "He was a favorite among staff, guests and fans across the country. His personality and charm reminded us all why we do what we do."

Ho Ho, a Topeka Zoo sun bear whose tongue often hung out due to missing teeth, died Monday morning at age 35. He was thought to be the oldest living sun bear in North America.

When did Ho Ho come to Topeka? Ho Ho was born Oct. 19, 1989, at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle.

He and his mate, Cup Cake, came to the Topeka Zoo in November 2017 from the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska.

They moved into the exhibit previously occupied by Tiffany the gorilla, who had died earlier that year.

Cup Cake died in 2019.

"Through his years with us, Ho Ho became a social media sensation," said Monday's news release. "Fans traveled from states away just to meet him, and one couple even sent him a birthday card for his 35th birthday this October."

Ho Ho's keepers celebrated his birthdays with themed parties featuring treats and handmade decorations. The most recent one took on a presidential theme to jokingly recognize his turning 35 and becoming eligible to run for president.

The median life expectancy for sun bears is estimated to be in the early to mid-20s, the zoo's news release said.

The zoo encouraged those who wish to honor Ho Ho to share their favorite memories of him on its social media channels.

Contact Tim Hrenchir at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Topeka's Ho Ho, thought to be North America's oldest sun bear, dies

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