Alaska Zoo’s last Siberian Tiger Dies

Alaska Zoo’s last Siberian Tiger Dies

 

Associated Press
KTVA Article Last Updated:12/28/2007 05:49:47 PM AKST

 

The Alaska Zoo says its last tiger has died.

 

Director Pat Lampi says Al the Amur tiger was euthanized under veterinary supervision Friday.

 

Lampi says the health of the 18-year-old animal had been on the decline.

 

The tiger arrived at the Alaska Zoo with his twin brother, Steve, and their mother in 1995 from the Philadelphia Zoo.

 

They were born as part of the Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan.

 

Steve died in August.

 

The life span of Amur tigers, the largest of all big cats, is 12-15 years in captivity with a few living into their 20s.

 

Fewer than 300 Amur tigers are found in the wild.

 

The Alaska Zoo is pursuing acquisition of new Amur tigers.

 

http://www.ktva.com/topstory/ci_7831899

 

Animal Profile: Al

 

Al was born at The Philadelphia Zoo in 1989 and arrived at The Alaska Zoo in 1995. He came with his mother Martha and brother Steve. Martha passed away at 21 years of age in 2000 and Steve recently passed away in August of 2007. Amur tigers can live up to 25 years in captivity.

 

These tigers were all born as part of the AZA Species Survival Plan for captive Amur tigers. This plan helps to maintain a genetically viable captive population, thereby ensuring the continued survival of this endangered species. In the case of our tigers, their genes were well-represented in the gene pool. This classified them as surplus, non-breeders. We built a beautiful 1/3 acre wooded exhibit and offered to provide them a permanent home. They are well-suited to live in our Arctic climate and provide our zoo with the opportunity to teach the public about endangered species and conservation.

 

http://www.alaskazoo.org/willowcrest/al.htm