Banham Zoo staff pay tribute after death of tiger Kuzma at age 14
Keepers to the decision to put him to sleep due to his health
Last updated 6th Mar 2023
Staff at Banham Zoo have been paying tribute to one of their male tigers Kuzma who's died at the age of 14 and a half.
The Amur tiger was being closely monitored by keepers, who say his health started to decline in recent weeks.
A decision was taken to put him to sleep on March 2 after it was determined he was suffering from late stage heart failure.
Kuzma leaves behind his partner Mishka, along with two cubs Luka and Kira.
Faye Bethell, Veterinary Director at the Zoological Society of East Anglia (ZSEA), said: “Kuzma was a delight to work with and a favourite for many of our keepers and visitors.
"The results of his tests showed he had end stage heart failure, which sadly left us with no option but to put him to sleep. He will live on in our memories and of course through his two cubs, Luka and Kira.”
Graeme Williamson, Head of Living Collections at ZSEA, said: “We are all deeply saddened to lose such an iconic animal at Banham Zoo.
"Kuzma truly was one of a kind and will be sorely missed by all.”