UNAM specialists perform necropsy on Bengal tiger Kenzo; preliminary results to be delivered to Profepa

Mexican authorities are awaiting preliminary necropsy results to determine the exact cause of death for Kenzo, a Bengal tiger that died on July 2 following a rescue operation. Specialists from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) performed the necropsy, and their initial findings will be submitted to the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) within the next week.

Profepa stated that during the rescue, the tiger attacked personnel attempting to sedate and capture it. Security forces reportedly repelled the attack, and although Kenzo received immediate medical attention, he succumbed to his injuries. The agency had previously noted that the tiger escaped from the Animal Experience Mexico facility on June 28.

In addition to the necropsy, Profepa conducted an inspection of Animal Experience Mexico, uncovering irregularities in its facilities and management plan. This led to the temporary, total closure of the site. Nine other wildlife specimens were secured, and all commercial and non-essential activities were suspended, with only feeding operations permitted to ensure animal welfare.

Kenzo was a juvenile tiger with a marking system, and Profepa confirmed that Animal Experience Mexico had legally accredited its origin. However, the agency maintains that the responsibility for the tiger's care lay with the facility that housed it.

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A Profepa coronial investigation in relation to the 'Somerton Man' is complex and ongoing.