Zoo announces death of 13-year-old Sumatran tiger

Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens said the 13-year-old tiger had a prolapsed disc and a nerve root tumour

A tiger who has been put down at a zoo due to an "untreatable spinal condition" has been described as "truly remarkable".

Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens, in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, announced the death of Kubu, a 13-year-old Sumatran Tiger, on Monday.

It said the animal had been under veterinary supervision for age-related mobility issues. However, it was later discovered he had a prolapsed disc and nerve root tumour.

"Despite the dedicated efforts of our keepers and veterinary team to manage his care and ensure his comfort, the decision was made to let him pass peacefully and with dignity," the zoo said.

The Norfolk attraction is home to a variety of animals and big cats including snow leopards, Amur leopards and clouded leopards.

The tiger was born at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Ashford, Kent, before arriving at Thrigby in September 2013 when he was two years old.

It said he brought a "striking presence and a calm, regal personality".

"From the moment he joined our family, Kubu captured the hearts of everyone who met him.

"His gentle yet commanding demeanour made him a favourite among visitors, while his keepers formed a special bond with him, caring for him with deep respect and admiration."

Kubu was an "ambassador" for his species and was a "truly remarkable tiger," it added.

Kubu had been with Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens since September 2013 and was described as having a "striking presence"

In August 2023, the park announced the death of Sumatran tiger Dua who had resided there since 2005.

The female tiger was 19 when she died and had been showing signs of a "geriatric cat".

Kubu was the last remaining tiger and the attractions hopes to have a young male tiger join the gardens by the summer with a female joining later in the year.

It said it had also worked to extend the tiger enclosure in order to provide more space and modernisation, and to promote successful breeding.

"Though his powerful roars will no longer echo through the gardens, Kubu's memory will live on through the impact he made on our visitors and the commitment of Thrigby Hall to wildlife conservation," the zoo said.