Deviation Actions
Description
The 21-year-old tiger (Bakkar) was put down on Saturday due to ailing health.
"As an elderly tiger he had begun to show a decline in his appearance in recent times and every possible measure was taken to maintain his health, comfort and well-being," the zoo said.
"He remained mobile and alert right up to his last day but the decision was made to humanely euthanise him after his health declined rapidly overnight."
"It's a sad time at the zoo. Unfortunately I think when working with animals we all know when the time's right and the time unfortunately was right," she said.
Bakkar was born on December 30, 1994.
He lived at Dreamworld and the Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo for some time before spending his last 11 years at the National Zoo and Aquarium.
Ms Osterloh said Bakkar was well-known for his "chuff".
"Bakkar was renowned for his vocals and chuffing which is saying hello in tiger talk and that was really quite special," she said.
"You didn't have to be around him for long to actually build up a really good connection and relationship and bond with him."
The zoo said Bakkar enjoyed the company of people.
"He'd spend most of the days (even when it was cold) over near the viewing window where he could watch the general public, but as soon as people went into the bungalow he'd move there for the night," the zoo said.
"Although he had access to his den as well, he'd usually stay where the people were and many Jamala guests have described how lucky they feel to have had that close connection with him. He was a great ambassador for his species and helped make a significant contribution in raising awareness about the plight of tigers in the wild."
Bengal tigers can live up to 12 years in the wild and up to 20 years in captivity.
The zoo said Bakkar outlived his siblings by a long time.