Endangered Amur tiger Malena euthanized at Brookfield Zoo Chicago
BROOKFIELD, Ill. (WGN) — Brookfield Zoo Chicago is mourning the loss of their Amur tiger named Malena, following its decision to 'humanely euthanize' the animal following life-threatening health issues.
Zoo officials said Friday that their team of dedicated animal control specialists noticed changes in Malena's appetite and energy levels. Upon further examination, zoo veterinarians learned that Malena's kidneys were not functioning correctly, due to what officials called a 'cancerous process,' which led to life-threatening heart arrhythmias.
Brookfield Zoo to welcome first bachelor gorilla troop this summer
Due to the severity of Malena's ailments, the zoo made the difficult decision to euthanize her.
Malena joined Brookfield Zoo Chicago in 2020 and made history one year later as the first Amur tiger in North America to undergo a successful total hip replacement.
Amur tigers — also known as Siberian tigers — are critically endangered, with fewer than 500 remaining in the wild.
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