The famous musk ox Brutus is dead.
Myskoxcentrum in Härjedalen announces this on Facebook.
“It is with heavy hearts that we inform you that late last night for animal welfare reasons we were forced to put our fine bull Brutus to sleep,” the post reads.
A few years ago, Brutus the musk ox became a national celebrity when he wandered around alone and caused a stir in Jämtland.
Brutus had left his herd on the mountain and was wandering alone with the probable purpose of finding a new one. But there is only one group of wild muskox in Sweden.
In August 2021, he came to Myskoxcentrum in Härjedalen – where he quickly adapted. Over the years, Brutus fathered several calves.
“Signs of sepsis”
On Monday he was sedated for his annual health check but a few days later he fell ill again. On Thursday, Brutus needed to be euthanized.
“The autopsy showed extensive damage to the gastrointestinal tract with associated widespread inflammation/infection in the abdominal cavity and clear signs of blood poisoning (sepsis). As a result, it would not have been possible to save his life in any way,” writes Myskoxcentrum in Härjedalen in a post on Facebook.
“We are devastated by what has happened but find some comfort in the three vigorous and well-grown calves that Brutus has left behind this year,” the post continues