TULSA, Okla. (Oct. 28, 2022) – Tulsa Zoo is mourning the loss of Gahara, a male Malayan tiger who was humanely euthanized on Oct. 26. Gahara was being treated for lameness in one of his legs. A physical exam revealed that cancer was present and further investigation found evidence of the cancer’s spread to other parts of his body.
“Gahara was an incredible tiger,” said Tulsa Zoo Zoological Manager for Sea Lions and Large Carnivores Stephanie Kain. “He loved lounging in his exhibit pool with his front paws floating at the surface and his eyes closed. He also excelled at taking naps in the sun. We were all very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with him and get to know him. His passing has left a big hole in many hearts.”
Gahara was born at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo on Feb. 13, 2005. He moved to Tulsa in 2008, left for Fresno Chaffee Zoo in 2015, then returned to Tulsa in 2021 as part of the Species Survival Plan®. He has four offspring, one has two cubs of their own as a part of the Species Survival Plan®. Dara, Tulsa zoo’s newest Malayan tiger cub, is a descendant of Gahara.
At 17 years of age, Gahara was a geriatric tiger who lived a long life. He was monitored daily by staff members on his quality of life including mobility, appetite and temperament.
