Santa Barbara Zoo’s Cito the Penguin loses battle with fungal pneumonia

Cito the Humboldt penguin lost a battle with fungal pneumonia over the weekend, Santa Barbara Zoo officials said.

Cito had to be euthanized after his health declined rapidly despite medical treatment. The Santa Barbara Zoo posted on their Facebook page:

“The Santa Barbara Zoo is heartbroken to announce the sudden passing of Cito, our 3-year-old Humboldt penguin. Cito and his brother Monty were hand-raised, and frequently came out for visits with guests around the Zoo. They received their names from Premier Foster Feeder Montecito Bank & Trust.”

“Last week, Cito developed a severe case of fungal pneumonia. Though our animal care experts worked tirelessly to provide treatment and medication, his quality of life rapidly declined. On Sunday night, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize him.”

“Cito touched the lives of countless numbers of guests and held a very special place in the hearts of Zoo staff. He was a great ambassador for the declining Humboldt species, and for penguins all over the world. He will truly be missed.”