(FOX40.COM) — The Sacramento Zoo is grieving the loss of Julio, a blue and gold macaw. • Video above: Sacramento Zoo welcomes clouded leopards to their habitat
According to zoo officials, Julio experienced cardiac arrest while undergoing anesthesia for a veterinary procedure. The veterinary team acted immediately, but their efforts could not revive him.
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Julio was a cherished member of the Sacramento Zoo family since 1992, after he joined the Animal Ambassador Program at just 1-year-old.
A zoo spokesperson said that Julio has become a true icon of the ambassador team as entertained and educated thousands of guests, members and school children through stage shows, presentations and countless special appearances.
Julio loved his enrichment and training session; he was always eager to show off his intelligence and curiosity, from mastering new behaviors to enthusiastically exploring every new toy or puzzle presented to him…