Banham Zoo's Kuzma the tiger has died aged 14 after developing heart failure

An Amur tiger was euthanised at Banham Zoo earlier today after developing end stage heart failure.

Kuzma, who was 14 years old, had been at the zoo most of his life and was in the advanced stages of his lifespan when keepers noticed some concerning signs that his health was starting to deteriorate.

After an initial examination from the park’s veterinary team, it was advised that a full health check under general anaesthetic was required to fully assess his condition and treatment options.

Unfortunately, this examination confirmed that Kuzma was suffering from heart failure with a tumour on his heart. Keepers and vets were in full agreement that the kindest option was to put him to sleep.

Graeme Williamson, Head of Living Collections at the Zoological Society of East Anglia (ZSEA), said: “We are all deeply saddened to lose such an iconic animal at Banham Zoological Gardens. Kuzma truly was one of a kind and will be sorely missed by all staff, members, and visitors alike.”

Faye Bethell, Veterinary Director at ZSEA, said: “Kuzma was a delight to work with and a favourite for many of our keepers and visitors. The results of his tests showed he had end stage heart failure, which sadly left us with no option but to put him to sleep.

“He will live on in our memories and of course through his two cubs, Luka and Kira.”

Kuzma was born in October 2008 and has lived almost his entire life at Banham Zoological Gardens. He was paired with female tiger Mishka in May 2021 as part of the International Breeding Programme for their endangered species. The pair successfully bred and leave behind a legacy with their cubs Luka and Kira, born in October 2021.