Sumatran tiger 'Ratna' put to rest at Shepreth Wildlife Park
The 21 year old animal is being mourned by her keepers today after her health issues became unmanageable
Last updated 29th Jan 2025
A Sumatran tiger at Shepreth Wildlife Park has been put to rest at the age of 21 after health and mobility issues could no longer be managed compassionately.
Ratna, a well-known resident of the park, was euthanised on Tuesday, 28th January 2025. The team at Shepreth Wildlife Park described the loss as heartbreaking and paid tribute to the tiger’s impact on conservation efforts.
"She was a magnificent ambassador for her species, and her life and legacy will continue to inspire efforts to protect tigers and their habitats," a spokesperson for the park said.
Ratna was also a mother to Kelabu and was known for her strong personality. "She was a gentle soul... that left a big mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her," the spokesperson added.
Sumatran tigers are critically endangered, with fewer than 400 estimated to remain in the wild. A century ago, there were around 100,000 tigers across nine sub-species, but four have since become extinct. The remaining sub-species—Indian, Indo-Chinese, Malayan, Sumatran, and Amur—continue to face severe threats from habitat loss and poaching.
Tigers in the wild are solitary animals, with cubs leaving their mother’s territory after two to three years. They are most active at night and prefer hunting in dense vegetation. Tigers are capable of leaping up to 10 metres and are strong swimmers, often cooling off in water sources during the midday heat.
Shepreth Wildlife Park, which began as a private sanctuary in 1979, participates in national and international breeding programmes for endangered species and remains committed to conservation and education. The park is home to a range of animals, including black-tailed marmosets, Scottish wildcats, aardvarks, prairie dogs, and barn owls.
"She will be dearly missed by all," the spokesperson said.