Farewell To Mara: Columbus Zoo Bids Goodbye To A Tiger Legend
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic residents: Mara, the spirited 18-year-old Amur tiger whose life and legacy have left an indelible mark on the zoo and tiger conservation efforts worldwide.
Born at the Pittsburgh Zoo in 2006, Mara arrived at Columbus Zoo in 2010, quickly captivating visitors and staff with her boundless spunk and unmistakable sense of mischief. Throughout her years, she became much more than just another zoo inhabitant—she was an ambassador for her endangered species and the longest-living tiger cared for at the zoo in recent history.
Mara's story was truly remarkable. In 2012, she made history by giving birth to the first litter of tiger cubs seen at Columbus Zoo in over a quarter of a century. It was a milestone event that underscored the significance of captive breeding programs in conserving endangered species like the Amur tiger. Mara did not stop there; she raised two more litters, nurturing a legacy of nine cubs—Dimitri, Wiz, Morgana, Glinda, Taj II, Ursula, Timothy, George Miller, and Mabelle. These nine carry her lineage forward, each a living testament to the hope for their wild cousins, whose numbers continue to dwindle.
Recently, Mara faced age-related mobility challenges. With compassion, the zoo’s veterinary staff made the difficult choice to humanely euthanize her, ensuring her comfort in her final moments. The zoo’s heartfelt statement remembered Mara as “an incredible ambassador for her endangered species and a treasured member of our Zoo family.”
It’s impossible to overstate Mara’s impact. Her vibrant personality, love for enrichment, and attentive motherhood were admired by countless visitors. She bridged the connection between people and the plight of endangered species, reinforcing why institutions like the Columbus Zoo matter—not just for entertainment, but for education and conservation.
As community members and animal advocates remember Mara, her legacy challenges us: How can we further support the conservation of magnificent creatures like the Amur tiger, ensuring their futures in the wild and in our collective consciousness?
Did you meet Mara, or were you inspired by her story? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below, and join the conversation in honoring a true tiger legend.
