Officials at Ralph Mitchell Zoo in Independence announce the passing of a beloved zoo animal.

Zoo officials say the zoo's red fox named Bubs passed away on Wednesday. Bubs was 14 years old and was experiencing advanced kidney failure. His prognosis was extremely poor and the decision was made to humanely euthanize the animal. Bubs had been living at the Independence Zoo since 2011.

Red foxes are found throughout the Northern Hemisphere in a variety of habitats, and their diet consists of small animals, insects, and fruit. Foxes produce a skunk-like odor that they use to mark their territories. The average lifespan of a red fox in captivity is 10-15 years old.