Maymont Celebrates The Life of Little Bear

07.2026

Maymont is sad to share the news that after two decades as a beloved wildlife ambassador, Little Bear, aka Phoenix, was humanely euthanized on July 10. One of the animal keepers’ favorites for his unfailingly friendly attitude, Little Bear had a form of congenital dwarfism and hormonal complications akin to Addison’s disease, which have required specialized care from attending veterinarians since he arrived at Maymont as a yearling in 2006.

“Little Bear was a friend to everyone,” said Joe Neel, Senior Manager of Zoology. “Whether you've worked with him for years or just met him for the first time, he was happy to see you and greeted you like a long-lost friend, particularly if you had treats.”