A bear cub unexpectedly died at a popular suburban pumpkin farm over the weekend in what the attraction is calling a “rare” and “unusual” circumstance.
Goebbert's Farm in South Barrington is a well-known fall favorite in the Chicago area, flocked to for its festivals, corn mazes, pig races, games and touting more than 50 different animals at an aptly-named ‘Animal Land’ for families to interact with after they pick their pumpkins each season – but visitors found one of those young animals dead this past Saturday.
The farm at 40 W. Higgins Rd. addressed the sudden death in a Wednesday afternoon Facebook post, confirming they, "unfortunately did lose a bear this past weekend."
"The bear was immediately taken to the veterinarian where they performed an autopsy which came back inconclusive," the post reads.
Goebbert's did not elaborate on how the bear was found, but said they are currently awaiting toxicology reports to uncover definitive information as to why the young animal passed away suddenly.
"We will continue working closely with the animal handlers, as well as the veterinarian to get an answer," the company said. "We are deeply saddened by the situation."
The animal exhibit is not owned or operated by the farm. The exhibit is organized by Wisconsin-based Animal Entertainment Inc.
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"In the world of animals and life in general, you have life and you have death," said Mark Schoebel of Animal Entertainment. "And animals do die and it's unfortunate."
Danielson also told the publication that Goebbert's owners will speak to staff at the end of the season, as they do annually, to talk about possible changes to the festival's lineup.
The Department of Agriculture is also looking into the incident.
