Coal, a cat who became an unofficial mascot for Canada's Parliament, passed away recently at 17 after a battle with cancer. Known for residing in a unique colony of felines near the Centre Block, Coal was a beloved figure among tourists and the local community, drawing visitors, including dignitaries like the Dalai Lama and former Prime Minister Stephen Harper. His life symbolized resilience and companionship, shared by both volunteers and the public visiting Parliament Hill.
Coal's journey began when he was likely abandoned as a kitten at the colony, which once boasted about three dozen cats living in makeshift shelters near the parliamentary grounds. The colony's charm was further enhanced by occasional visits from raccoons, turning it into a quirky attraction for tourists, rivalling the iconic legislative buildings. Danny Taurozzi, his adoptive owner, played a vital role in caring for the cats and described how tourists would stop by to interact with the friendly felines during their visits to Parliament.
Though Coal's passing marks the end of an era for the parliamentary cat colony, he will be fondly remembered for the joy and connection he brought to countless visitors over the years.
Coal's journey began when he was likely abandoned as a kitten at the colony, which once boasted about three dozen cats living in makeshift shelters near the parliamentary grounds. The colony's charm was further enhanced by occasional visits from raccoons, turning it into a quirky attraction for tourists, rivalling the iconic legislative buildings. Danny Taurozzi, his adoptive owner, played a vital role in caring for the cats and described how tourists would stop by to interact with the friendly felines during their visits to Parliament.
Though Coal's passing marks the end of an era for the parliamentary cat colony, he will be fondly remembered for the joy and connection he brought to countless visitors over the years.
