A black bear died at Maine Wildlife Park in Gray on Wednesday

The wildlife park announced in a social media post on Thursday the loss of “our beloved resident black bear,” Luvey.

It said one of the bear’s wildlife keepers had seen Luvey eating and otherwise behaving normally before she “suddenly collapsed.”

“Staff responded immediately, but she passed away within minutes,” the park said. “A veterinary necropsy will be performed to help determine the cause of her death.”

Luvey began her roughly five-year stay at Maine Wildlife Park in 2021 after the facility where she previously lived closed.

“A beautiful cinnamon-phase black bear, she quickly became a favorite among visitors and staff alike,” the Maine Wildlife Park said in its post. “Because she was raised in human care, she could not be released into the wild, but she found a permanent home here where she helped thousands of visitors connect with and learn about Maine’s black bears and the importance of wildlife conservation.”

The park said losing any animal “is deeply felt” by staff who are all dedicated to providing high-quality care.

“We know Luvey was loved by many, and we appreciate the kindness being shown to the staff who cared for her,” the park said.