One of Chicago’s oldest trees will soon be cut down

The Bur Oak is believed to be between 250 to 300 years old. It will come down Monday. The tree located at the Lincoln Park Zoo is dying according to staff and is just west of the Zoo’s primate house. The tree which is about 70 feet tall and 46 inches wide has been declining for about two years and is now considered a safety hazard to those visiting the zoo.The tree survived the great Chicago fire in 1871. Since today is Arbor Day the zoo will give guests the opportunity to write thank you notes to the tree before it comes down.