Jimmy's Farm Polar Bear Hope Dies During Operation in Suffolk

Hope, an 11-year-old polar bear at Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park near Ipswich, has died following a vital dental procedure carried out by a highly experienced veterinary team. Hope, who was born in France and previously lived in Sweden and Staffordshire, joined the park's 16-acre polar bear enclosure last year along with her mother Flocke, sister Tala, and companion Ewa. Despite the best efforts of seven vets, two veterinary nurses, and animal care staff, Hope did not recover from the operation, leaving the park deeply saddened. Jimmy Doherty, the TV presenter and park owner, described Hope as family and emphasized her role in inspiring visitors and raising awareness about polar bears and wildlife conservation. The park, which houses Europe's largest polar bear enclosure, remains committed to protecting and conserving wildlife and honoring Hope's legacy through the care of the surviving bears. Hope's passing highlights the challenges and complexities involved in zoo and conservation veterinary care.