Detroit Zoo's Oldest Tiger Dies At 18, Zoo Officials 'Heartbroken'

ROYAL OAK, MI — The Detroit Zoo's oldest tiger died Thursday, zoo officials announced.

The 18-year-old Amur Tiger, Kisa, died during a veterinary procedure meant to manage her arthritis symptoms and improve her quality of life, zoo officials said.

At almost 19-years-old, she was considered elderly since the life expectancy for an Amur Tiger in the wild is roughly 10-15 years.

Zoo officials said Kisa was on three different medications to help keep her comfortable in her later years, as they monitored her age-related illnesses. She was a favorite among animal care staff at the zoo.

"Despite being known for her spirited attitude, she was mild-mannered with animal care staff and has always been a favorite among those who worked with her for nearly two decades," Detroit Zoo Associate Curator of Mammals Betsie Meiste said.

Kisa was born at the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak on August 12, 2003. She shared the Devereux Tiger Forest with two other tigers, Nikolai and Ameliya. She loved taking long walks through the habitat, especially if there was snow on the ground.

"Her absence leaves a hole in our hearts, and she will be missed by staff and guests alike," zoo officials said.