TUCSON, AZ — Reid Park Zoo in Tucson announced the death of their 18-year-old Malayan tiger, Baheem, on Saturday via press release.
“Baheem was such a fun tiger to train and care for. He would make chuffing sounds when keepers would greet him in the morning and was always enthusiastic about special treats like bones and popsicles,” said Animal Care Supervisor Rebecca Edwards.
Baheem's health started to decrease in the last few weeks.
"His health exam confirmed ongoing arthritis, kidney disease, pancreatic insufficiency, and chronic inflammatory bowel disease, but also revealed valley fever and a greatly enlarged spleen."
The veterinarian found that his medications weren't working and euthanized him yesterday.
The average life expectancy for this species of tiger is 16-years-old. Baheem surpassed his life expectancy by two years, making it to 18.
