Baton Rouge Zoo to Welcome New Malayan Tiger in Conservation Effort

Baton Rouge Zoo to Welcome New Malayan Tiger in Conservation Effort
Tanvir, a 15-year-old Malayan tiger from the Tulsa Zoo, will soon call BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo home as part of a conservation effort to protect this critically endangered species.

BATON ROUGE, La. — BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo is set to welcome a new resident, a 15-year-old Malayan tiger named Tanvir, who will arrive from the Tulsa Zoo in Oklahoma as part of a conservation program for this critically endangered species.

The Tulsa Zoo confirmed the tiger’s upcoming transfer in a social media post, explaining that Tanvir, who was not compatible with their female tiger, will join the Baton Rouge Zoo under the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Malayan Tiger Species Survival Plan. The plan is a collaborative effort among accredited zoos to support the preservation of Malayan tigers, whose numbers in the wild have dwindled to fewer than 200.

BREC officials have yet to announce Tanvir's exact arrival date, but preparations are already underway to ensure a smooth transition for the tiger. Tanvir’s new home became available after Baton Rouge Zoo’s previous Malayan tiger, Intan, was euthanized in July at age 20 due to health issues related to old age.

The zoo’s director emphasized the significance of the transfer, saying, “We’re committed to the long-term survival of this species, and bringing Tanvir to Baton Rouge is a positive step for both our zoo and the global conservation effort.”

Tanvir’s arrival will provide zoo visitors with an opportunity to learn about endangered species and support the larger goal of preserving Malayan tigers.

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