Baton Rouge Zoo Welcomes SU’s Lacumba III
The baby jaguar’s name was solidified in honor of Southern University’s mascots, respectively, Lacumba and Lacumba II.
By: Christian Phillips
Baton Rouge, La. — Typically visited for its lions, giraffes, and monkeys, the Baton Rouge Zoo was recently flooded by Southern University faculty and students along with others in support of a historic baby jaguar’s birth at the zoo—Lacumba III.
The baby jaguar’s name was solidified in honor of Southern University’s mascots, respectively, Lacumba and Lacumba II. The Baton Rouge Zoo celebrated the birth of Lacumba III, who was born this past December. The birth marked the end of a 20-year drought since the last jaguar was born in the zoo.
“Lacumba, with her birth… created a new and renewed commitment to Southern University and the Jaguar Nation,” stated Jim Fleshman, Director of the East Baton Rouge Zoo. Fleshmen also stated that Lacumba III’s birth also helps to preserve the jaguar population, as the big cat is a near–threatened species due to overpopulation and habitat destruction.
Throughout Southern University’s history, they have housed two living jaguars as mascots. However, after their passing, Southern opted not to obtain a new jaguar because they were unable to properly house and care for the animal.
Both teachers and students appear to be very supportive of the Baton Rouge Zoo's kind act. “It just all seems to fall in line perfectly to know that the jaguar can be properly taken care of with the proper treatment. We say it in everything: Go Jags! Our Mighty Jaguars!... So to be able to have this moment, to be able to see this vision come to life, we're just thrilled,” stated Student Government Association President Kennedy Orr.
Ultimately, Lacumba III has created a lasting bond between the Southern University family and the Baton Rouge Zoo for years to come. If you would like to support Lacumba III and other animals at the Baton Rouge Zoo, please visit brzoo.org
