Injured black bear cub Aurora dies after days in critical condition at Hunterdon County wildlife refuge
ALEXANDRIA TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — A juvenile black bear believed to have been struck by a vehicle in Hunterdon County has died after several days of critical care at Woodlands Wildlife Refuge, the refuge announced Friday.
Woodlands Wildlife Refuge said it received the approximately 35-pound bear cub, later named Aurora, on July 29 after she was found unconscious but alive along Rick Road in Alexandria Township. The bear was presumed to have been struck by a vehicle.
A good Samaritan identified only as Phil transported the cub to Woodlands Wildlife Refuge before she was taken to the Animal Hospital of Clinton-Perryville for evaluation.
Veterinarians determined Aurora suffered a concussion but found no broken bones or internal injuries, according to the refuge.
Woodlands Wildlife Refuge announced Friday that Aurora had died peacefully overnight despite efforts by veterinarians, staff and volunteers to save her.
“Sadly we need to share that Aurora bear gave up the good fight and passed away peacefully overnight. We deeply appreciate the incredible teamwork from our veterinarians , staff, and volunteers who did the absolute best for her. We thank all of YOU for your kind wishes and support. We will always try our best.”
Before her death, Aurora had shown small signs of improvement despite remaining in critical condition. On the fifth day of her recovery, the refuge said progress had been slow.
“Today marks day five of her recovery, and she remains in critical condition. Progress has been slow, but we are seeing small improvements.”
In that earlier update, the refuge said Aurora remained unconscious most of the time but had managed to stand on all fours, initially using the side of her enclosure for support and later without assistance.
“While she remains unconscious most of the time, we were encouraged to see her manage to get up onto all fours yesterday, using the sidewall of her enclosure for support. Then again today without support! This effort took a lot of energy, and she quickly went back to sleep afterward.”
At the time, the refuge said Aurora continued to receive supportive care while staff closely monitored her condition.
“We continue to monitor her closely and remain hopeful. Thank you for your ongoing support and concern for Aurora’s well-being.”
Despite those signs of improvement, Aurora remained in critical condition before her death, according to the refuge.
