Hamilton Zoo's Sumatran tiger Mencari was euthanised on Tuesday at the age of 23. Photo: Supplied by Hamilton City Council
A Sumatran tiger described as a grand old lady has died at Hamilton Zoo.
Mencari, who was 23 years old, was euthanised on Tuesday in the company of staff who loved and cared for her.
The zoo said she had remained active and relatively sprightly until recently.
She had been closely monitored and it became noticeable she was slowing down, it said.
It became clear it was time to step in to ensure she did not suffer, the zoo said.
Mencari was born at Wellington Zoo in 2000 and transferred to Hamilton with two of her siblings, at the age of 14-months, as part of an Australasian breeding programme.
A picture released by Hamilton City Council on 10 January 2022 when Mencari was celebrating her 22nd birthday. Photo: Supplied by Hamilton City Council
Zoo director Dr Baird Fleming said Mencari would be greatly missed.
"She was a special soul and a favourite amongst her keepers, who are feeling the loss deeply.
"While the passing of one of our animal whānau is always tough, our main priority for all animals in our care is to ensure they do not suffer."
All the zoo animals receive daily welfare checks and regular health checks. While Mencari was considered elderly, Sumatran tigers have a life expectancy of 15 years in the wild. Dr Fleming said she had remained active and in great condition until very recently.
Carnivore team leader Shane Fox said caring for Mencari had been an absolute privilege.
"While we are definitely feeling the loss of Mencari, we take comfort that we were able to step in and ensure she did not suffer."
Sumatran tigers are critically endangered with less than 400 remaining in the wild on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. Numbers continue to decline due to habitat loss from palm-oil deforestation and poaching. Zoos continue to play a crucial part in the conservation efforts of these critically endangered animals.
Females Sali and her daughter Kirana remain at Hamilton Zoo.