Kaliyani white tiger - Image courtesy of Zoo Knoxville

Kaliyani, known as “Kali” to staff and guests, had been struggling with declining health over recent weeks attributed to her advanced age. Her quality of life was monitored closely and constantly by her zoo caretakers and the veterinary team from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. When her physical symptoms were no longer being comfortably managed with medication and she began refusing food, the decision was made to humanely euthanize her. She was 21 years old.

Kali was born at the Nashville Zoo in 1997 and came to Knoxville in 2003. For more than 11 years she delighted zoo visitors with her striking beauty until her retirement to a quiet area off public view in 2014.

The average life expectancy of tigers in the wild is 10 to 12 years and up to 20 years in human care. Kali’s longevity was a testament to the excellent care she received from her keepers and veterinary team, all of whom were with her this morning.

“Kali was a rare tiger in many ways,” said Zoo Knoxville Director of Animal Care, Conservation and Education Phil Colclough. “Her personality and charisma impacted everyone. This is a very difficult day for the staff and visitors who loved her. ”

For more information on Zoo Knoxville, you may visit zooknoxville.org.