Potter Park Zoo Mourn Loss of Amur Tiger, Sivaki

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: April 2, 2021 3:45 pm

Amur tiger, Sivaki prior to his passing at the Potter Park Zoo

Photo Credit: Potter Park Zoo

Potter Park Zoo are mourning the loss of their 16 year old Amur tiger who was humanely euthanized on Mach 31st 2021. This followed a decline in the health of the tiger who had been suffering from spinal disease.

“After animal care staff noticed he was reluctant to move, veterinary staff diagnosed the spinal disease as the cause of his discomfort,” said Dr. Ronan Eustace, Potter Park Zoo’s Director of Animal Health. “Treatment to address his spinal disease was initiated, but his condition worsened quickly and it was determined euthanasia was the humane decision.”

Sivaki was in line with the median lifespan for his species which is 16.3 years for males.

Amur tiger, Sivaki prior to his passing at the Potter Park Zoo

Photo Credit: Potter Park Zoo

Sivaki has played an important role in the survival of the species during his lifetime. Himself born at Potter Park Zoo he would go on to father three cubs and inspire many of the visitors to the zoo.

The IUCN currently list the Amur tiger as critically endangered with as few as 400 to 500 remaining in the wild.

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Potter Park Zookeeper Annie Marcum is one of the many team members at the zoo who had a special connection with Sivaki having worked with him for more than 15 years.

“It’s been my pleasure and privilege to work with Sivaki for the last 15 years. Sivaki was five-months-old when I started my internship. He inspired me. Training Sivaki and his sisters showed me the huge impact zookeepers can have on the welfare of the animals we care for and I will always be grateful for that. It was lessons learned from him that led me on my path to join the ongoing effort of our institution to strive for exceptional welfare and conservation of their wild spaces. I will miss him greatly,” said Marcum.

Amur tiger, Sivaki prior to his passing at the Potter Park Zoo

Photo Credit: Potter Park Zoo

The Potter Park Zoo is located in Lansing Michigan. They provide a home for 500 animals including endangered species such as the black rhino or red panda.

Learn more about the Potter Park Zoo on their website – Potter Park Zoo