Popcorn Park Zoo and the Society mourn the loss of Oliver, a black and white steer that was with us for twelve years. Known to all visitors to the zoo for his friendliness, he will be terribly missed by staff and those that knew and loved him. He was humanely euthanized on June 7 due to illness.

Oliver was one of the few very lucky calves to have escaped the horrible cruelty of the veal crate. Thanks to a writer visiting a dairy farm where she was to write an article 'on location', Oliver's life was spared. The writer realized his fate -- separated from his mother while still nursing, chained in a stall unable to move and then slaughtered, still a baby.The kind-hearted writer could not tolerate this thought, so she paid the farmer Oliver's fee, and he came to Popcorn Park Zoo.

That was twelve years ago, and he has had a wonderful life ever since. Oliver was mourned by staff at a memorial service at the zoo, which included the reading of Our Creed for the animals we have lost. We'll miss you, Oliver.