Cameron Park Zoo Loses Oldest Male Sumatran Tiger to Lymphoma

Introduction

Last week, Cameron Park Zoo suffered the loss of its oldest male Sumatran tiger, Kucing, due to complications from lymphoma treatments. At 15 years old, Kucing was the oldest male Sumatran tiger in North America and one of the three oldest males globally. The zoo’s tiger exhibit is still home to Maharani, Kucing’s former mate. At 18 years old, Maharani is one of the two oldest female Sumatran tigers in the United States and one of seven female Sumatran tigers age 18 globally.

Sumatran Tigers: Critically Endangered Species

Sumatran tigers, the smallest subspecies of tigers, are native to the lowland and mountain forests of the Indonesian island of Sumatra. The species faces threats from poaching, habitat loss due to logging and palm oil production, and dwindling prey populations. With only 400 to 600 Sumatran tigers left in the wild, the species is listed as critically endangered.

Lymphoma in Sumatran Tigers

Lymphoma is a cancerous disease that affects the lymphatic system. In Sumatran tigers, lymphoma can present in various forms, including gastrointestinal, mediastinal, and multicentric lymphoma. The cause of lymphoma in Sumatran tigers is highly debated, but genetics and environmental factors may play a role. Early diagnosis and treatment can increase the chances of survival.

Cameron Park Zoo’s Efforts in Conservation

With the global zoo population of Sumatran tigers at only 278 individuals, every tiger is important, and every loss is deeply felt. Cameron Park Zoo has been working under the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Sumatran Tiger Species Survival Plan to identify a potential new breeding pair to move into its tiger facility. The program is designed to maintain and increase a genetically diverse tiger population in captivity across the continent.

Conclusion

The loss of Kucing is a reminder of the urgency to focus on conserving the critically endangered Sumatran tiger and its habitats. At Cameron Park Zoo, conservation is a constant effort, as demonstrated by its team that continues to work for species survival even as they mourn the loss of Kucing. Hopefully, their efforts will result in the continued survival and growth of the Sumatran tiger population.

Originally Post From https://wacotrib.com/news/local/cameron-park-zoo-texas-tiger-death-endangered-species/article_dad040b8-273e-11ef-9542-1b1010922f8c.html

Cameron Park Zoo mourns loss of Sumatran tiger, seeks new mating pair