South Dakota Zoo Mourns The Loss of 'Gentle' Snapping Turtle

It's been a rough start to 2026 for a local Watertown, South Dakota zoo.

A beloved Alligator Snapping Turtle named Bowser has passed away at the Bramble Park Zoo. This 'cherished' animal has called South Dakota home for a long time.

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Bramble Park Zoo (via Facebook)

Bowser has been with the Bramble Park Zoo since April 2010. Behind closed doors, Bowser was suffering from cancer. Due to complications from his cancer, staff at the Bramble Park Zoo broke the heartbreaking news in a Facebook post.

This is a tough loss for everyone at Bramble Park Zoo. Bowser was known for having a "larger-than-life personality." One of his favorite activities was early morning fishing.

He will be greatly missed—especially his morning greetings, his gentle nature with young guests peering through his viewing window, his impressive and unique fishing skills, and the occasional special treat shared by his caretakers.

We are grateful for the support and understanding of our community as we mourn the loss of our friend, Bowser, and celebrate the many years he spent touching lives at the zoo.

The Bramble Park Zoo knows how loved Bowser was in Watertown and the surrounding communities. Some zoo-goers have shared some of their favorite Bowser stories on the Facebook post.

When I was going through a hard time, I'd sit at the zoo and draw some of the animals. Bowser was the first animal I sat with for a while to draw.

Absolutely one of my greatest memories was working with him during my time at the zoo! He was always so entertaining and endearing!

Bowser made my day when I felt overwhelmed or sad or just needed someone to make me smile. He was fascinating to watch him and my kids grew up with him more or less by going to the zoo we had fond memories of him with my kids

Bramble Park Zoo (via Facebook)

We will miss you, Bowser. Watertown and South Dakota will keep your memory alive!

South Dakota's Weird Exotic Animal Laws Are Amazing

Have an interesting pet or looking to get one? Check this out from South Dakota Exotic Animal Laws before you go trying to adopt one.

You will need a zoo permit to harbor a raccoon dog. That's a real species. It's a small wild dog with a black facial mask and long fur, native to the forests of Asia.

Gallery Credit: Danny V