Animals: Tiger Maruschka is dead - Grief at Hagenbeck

Tierpark Hagenbeck is mourning the unexpected death of Maruschka, a 15-year-old tiger who failed to recover from anesthesia during a necessary medical examination. The beloved feline, born in a Russian zoo, had been a resident of the Hamburg park for twelve years.

Zootenarian Michael Flügger expressed the zoo's sorrow, noting Maruschka's significant contributions. "Maruschka lived at the zoo for twelve years, gave us several healthy cubs, and delighted visitors for many years with her stately appearance," he stated. During her time at Hagenbeck, Maruschka successfully raised six cubs across two litters in 2017 and 2022.

In the days leading up to her death, Maruschka exhibited concerning symptoms, including weakness and reduced appetite. Veterinarians opted for anesthesia to investigate the cause, hoping to diagnose and treat her condition. However, the procedure proved fatal.

An autopsy revealed the underlying cause of Maruschka's decline: advanced heart cancer. The disease had caused fluid accumulation in her chest cavity and pericardial sac, severely restricting her lung capacity. The park will now continue with its remaining tigers, Yascha and Maruschka's daughter Rida, who is slated to relocate to Canada.

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Maruschka lived at the zoo for twelve years, gave us several healthy cubs, and delighted visitors for many years with her stately appearance.