The Woodland Park Zoo's 19-year-old male Sumatran tiger named Rakata was euthanized today, following a period of physical decline and age-related kidney failure and liver disease.

The average life expectancy of Sumatran tigers is 18 to 20 years in zoos and 15 years in the wild.

A comprehensive health examination was performed on the elderly tiger in early February after zookeepers noticed a sharp decline in his activity level and appetite. Ongoing kidney and liver decline were confirmed and no other potential health concerns were identified.

“Despite supportive care and treatments, the tiger never regained a healthy appetite and euthanasia was the most humane option for this geriatric animal,” explained Woodland Park Zoo’s Associate Veterinarian, Dr. Kelly Helmick.

A necropsy performed at the zoo also showed extensive stomach and intestinal wall thickening and an unexpected hernia involving the diaphragm.

“The hernia was most likely congenital and, as recently as today, became a medical problem,” explained the zoo’s Director of Animal Health, Dr. Darin Collins, who performed the necropsy.

A final cause of death and related findings are pending complete results of histology and other diagnostic testing, which is routine for all animal deaths at the zoo.

The remains of the tiger will become part of the research and education collection at The Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture.

Rakata has been a favorite animal ambassador for Woodland Park Zoo guests since he arrived in 1998 from Toronto Zoo.

“His majestic beauty and quiet strength kept us in awe and inspired millions of visitors to care about tigers. Our staff, volunteers, and tiger fans will miss Rakata and his chuffs and roars echoing off the walls of his exhibit,” said Martin Ramirez, mammal curator at Woodland Park Zoo.

Twenty-year-old female, JoJo, is the zoo’s sole surviving Sumatran tiger. She and Rakata lived together compatibly for 11 years and produced five cubs, the last cub born in 2006.