Official page of The Virginia Zoo, home to 700+ animals representing 150+ unique species. Meet lions, orangutans, a crocodile and more.
03/28/2025
We are deeply saddened to share the passing of our two senior slender-tailed meerkats, Amadi (13) and Hardy (12). On March 26, the meerkat pair was humanely euthanized after significant declines due to age-related illnesses confirmed by veterinary exams performed that day. Since Amadi and Hardy were extremely bonded, amongst other detailed considerations, it was determined that it was in their best interest to proceed with humane euthanasia of both individuals at the same time. This decision was made with careful consideration and after consultations with several other Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) animal care experts.
Amadi and Hardy were both born at Cleveland Park Zoo in 2012 and have been with the Virginia Zoo since 2015. With a median life expectancy of 10 years, this duo exceeded their natural lifespan. Meerkats are dependent upon their social groups referred to as “mobs”. Due to the social dynamics of their species, subjecting either individual to a solitary life would have created distress. Introducing a geriatric meerkat to a new mob would have also created distress, with the added risk of injury or even death. These considerations, along with Amadi and Hardy’s age, health conditions, and their care teams’ research, indicated letting the pair pass together was the best course of action.
Africa keepers say Amadi had a bold personality and never hesitated to approach staff, especially when food was involved, while Hardy was more reserved. Both enjoyed spending their days digging, doing animal paintings, interacting with enrichment, snuggling in their nest boxes together, and sleeping in. The team said they will especially miss their morning greetings of “barks” while cleaning in the rock hyrax exhibit next door.
Unfortunately, we will not have meerkats on exhibit at this time, but our staff is working diligently with the Slender-tailed Meerkat Species Survival Plan coordinators to house new meerkats in the future. In the meantime, we appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate the complicated permitting process required to house these animals. We will update our website and official social media channels when we have more information!
Amadi and Hardy will be deeply missed by the Zoo team and guests alike. Please keep their care team in your thoughts as they process these heartbreaking losses. The Virginia Zoo greatly appreciates the support of our community during this difficult time.
