(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo is deeply saddened to announce its matriarch Dromedary Camel, Leena, passed earlier this week at the age of 27.

Leena’s keepers noticed her having difficulty getting around her exhibit due to arthritis. Leena’s condition was monitored closely through quality of life and welfare assessments. When her arthritis progressed to the point where treatment could no longer provide enough relief or comfort, LV Zoo’s veterinary and animal care teams made the difficult decision to euthanize her on Saturday afternoon.

Leena arrived at LV Zoo in 1997 from Virginia and spent her years in the Lehigh Valley living with her soon-to-be 23-year-old daughter, Baby, who was born at LV Zoo in 1999. While mourning the loss, LV Zoo staff will be keeping a close eye on Baby as she adjusts to this change.

Guests can visit Baby during LV Zoo daytime summer hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but as a treasured community landmark, the Zoo’s history spans over a century. Founded in 1906 by General Harry C. Trexler, a local industrialist, the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve has educated and entertained more than five million people.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. With a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook @LVZOO.