Popular meerkat known as Snow White euthanised at Adelaide Zoo

A famous elderly meerkat who gained a cult following when her fur turned white has been euthanised to “prevent her suffering”, zookeepers in South Australia have confirmed.

Adelaide Zoo celebrated Snow White’s 14th birthday in September, but age finally caught up with the beloved visitor favourite.

“Snowy was humanely euthanised (on Thursday) due to a number of age-related health conditions that had seen her quality of life significantly reduced,” the animal park said in a post on Facebook.

“An aged animal assessment was conducted with meerkat keepers and zoo veterinarians and it was determined that it was time to offer Snowy this final act of kindness, to prevent her suffering.”

At 14, the zoo said she had lived well beyond the average age of a captive meerkats which is about 10 years.

Snowy stood out from the rest of the mob due to her white colouring.

She was born looking like her family but lost her pigmentation as she aged.

The zoo says she is the only white meerkat on record.

The fur colour change baffled the park’s vet team, and meant she needed extra protection from the sun but she was otherwise OK.

“The only thing we’ve changed since she turned white is that we’ve moved her to a shadier habitat as her light colouring makes her more susceptible to sun damage,” senior vet Ian Smith said previously.

Adelaide Zoo described Snowy as an “icon” who “captured hearts and imaginations throughout her life”.

“She reminded us all of the beauty in being different, and celebrating that which makes us unique,” the park said.

“We ask that you show only kindness and respect for the loss of Snow White. If you wish to leave a message of support for her keepers or a kind farewell for Snowy, we encourage you to do so.”

‘She was special’

The tribute post has attracted more than 1600 reactions and hundreds of comments from people mourning Snowy’s death.

“I visited Adelaide Zoo many times and always looked for Snowy as she was a favourite,” one fan said.

“I had hoped to see her in the new year when I was intending to fly over and see the new pandas.

“I knew she had to be an advanced age so I shouldn’t be surprised but it still deeply saddens me.

“She was unique and a special little girl. Rest in peace little Snowy. You will leave a large legacy for all your meerkat family, zoo staff and zoo friends.”