Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Perth Zoo Euthanises Jaya, Its Last Sumatran Tiger, After Cancer Decline

The zoo says it has no immediate plans to bring in more tigers, highlighting a pause in its program as wild Sumatran numbers fall below 400.

Overview

  • Keepers reported abnormal behaviour this week, and veterinarians found he could no longer experience an acceptable quality of life.
  • Jaya, 17, was diagnosed in 2018 with an ectopic thyroid carcinoma, had a tumour removed, and was initially given about nine months to live.
  • He was born at Perth Zoo in 2008 under a regionally coordinated breeding program for the critically endangered subspecies.
  • Zoo officials said the euthanasia decision was made for his welfare and dignity, and staff described themselves as heartbroken.
  • The death leaves Perth Zoo without tigers for now, and Jaya’s mother, Setia, was also euthanised at the zoo in 2016 after developing cancer.