“Milo passed away at the Kanchanaburi Animal Hospital at about 8pm. She had not been well since she arrived at the wildlife sanctuary in April,” Banpot Maleehaun, Chief of the Khao Prathap Chang Wildlife Sanctuary, told The Phuket News this afternoon.
“I was told that she died from health complications due to long-term poor nutrition, and the fact that she was getting old,” he said.
“I am sorry and feel sad for the life she was forced to live. We did the best we can. Now, I am waiting for veterinarians to perform an autopsy to confirm the exact cause of death,” he added.
Milo was found amid forest in Thalang, central Phuket, in February after she disappeared from Phuket Zoo, where she was held for two years. (See stories here and here).
Vicki Kiely, who launched an online campaign that spurred officials to finally take action over Milo’s incarceration at the zoo (see story here), was devastated by the news.
In a heartfelt post on her Facebook page, Ms Kiely said:
"It is with the deepest sadness, and heavy heart, I let you know that Milo passed away last night, between 8pm and 9pm. This was just relayed to me now, and I am utterly devastated and empty. I know she was suffering greatly, and obviously gave up her long battle with her stroke last night.
"I did all that I could for her. I loved her more than life. I put so much on the line to get her her freedom, and to show her love and compassion.
"She was my friend and brought a great joy to both my life and my childrens, even in her dark days as prisoner in the Zoo.....we struck a bond that I will never forget, and her spirit and personality will be with me forever.
"I wish that she could have fought more, but I think the illness was too severe for her to recover. I will not be responding to anyone for the next 24 hours. I am in total shock and grief. Thank you all for your incredible love and support of sweet Milo throughout her whole last 5 months.
RIP my beautiful girl Milo......I weep many tears for you today.......I will miss you desperately. #savemilo"