Popcorn 2016-2021
A beloved member of the Wildlife Images family has passed away.
For more than 5 years, Popcorn the Short-Tailed Weasel astounded guests as she darted around her enclosure at lightning speed. It could be tough to
keep up with her, though she broke up her racing with plenty of naps to regain her strength. Her speedy antics made her such a joy to watch.
Popcorn’s coat, which was brown and tan for half the year, put on a show of its own. In the fall, her coat would change to almost all white with just a hint of black at the tip of her tail.
Popcorn began to slow down in recent months, and her coat did not change as quickly as it typically does in the fall. She had an annual exam over the summer which found that she had an enlarged heart. Staff monitored her closely to make sure she was comfortable but they noticed a sudden decline in appetite and energy a couple of weeks ago. Keeper staff took her off tour to keep a closer eye on her and help maintain her body temperature in the warmth of the clinic. Unfortunately, she passed away in her sleep on November 11, 2021.
Popcorn was orphaned as an infant in the Spring of 2016 taken in by The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Northern Utah in Ogden.
She was too young to be re-released back to the wild so the hunt began to find her a permanent home. Wildlife Images was happy to provide her with one.
SHARE YOUR MEMORIES AND PHOTOS OF POPCORN ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE.
“Popcorn was one of the first ambassadors I had ever trained, I instantly fell in love with her as well as working with wildlife. She was an incredible and unique animal that I feel we were all very lucky to have known her.”
— Keeper Kaylie, Wildlife Images Staff
“Popcorn was an amazing ambassador animal. I loved providing fun enrichment items for her because she was so curious and interactive in her environment. It was always fun to watch her run around in front of the window with guests. She will be very missed.”
— Jen, Animal Services Manager
BOOK A VISIT
To make a gift in Popcorn’s honor use the donation allocation “Ambassador Memorial Fund.” All donations will go to ensure the Animal Ambassadors at Wildlife Images have the best quality of life and continue to inspire children and adults alike.
MAKE A DONATION
