The Isle of Wight Zoo has announced that Simi, a much-loved tigeress who arrived on the Island in 2016, has sadly passed away.
Simi died last week as a result of a short illness, which the zoo says was related to her previous life as a circus performer in Germany.
Rather famously, Simi’s plight was brought up in the House of Commons by former Isle of Wight MP Andrew Turner. The Isle of Wight Zoo was helped by the Government in getting the tigeress from a rescue centre in Belgium to her new home in Sandown.
Deputy Animal Manager Carolyn Lorek has said:
“Simi was a feisty and highly intelligent lady who relished her training. She loved to run, chase and swim in her pool – always diving in headfirst.
“We will miss this stunningly beautiful cat who brightened our lives every day. Our dear Simi. RIP”.
Simi had a recurring problem with her back paw, which the keepers, working tirelessly with her, finally overcame, training her to present her foot every day for topical treatment. However, whilst zoo staff were able to treat these superficial wounds, unfortunately, Simi had more severe underlying problems associated with the way she was treated in the past, which finally took their toll.
Seems to be a lot of tigers/lions passing away at the zoo in the past year… seems a bit odd
They take a lot of old and I’ll treated animals to give them a better life so of course they will die sooner than young fit animals!
So lovely that these animals enjoy their last years with great care and respect. Knowing that the staff at the zoo love these animals so much .
Such sad news at anytime of the year.
A lot of these tigers are victims of abuse and a lot of their injuries are internal which complicates matters and they are liable to pick up illnesses with ease. Farewell Simi, at least you had a better life at the end and was able to enjoy your last few years at peace and with love.
Exactly why animals shouldnt be in circuses. IOW zoo were proactive in getting Simi here so she could be given a peaceful life and be looked after. Sad it wasnt for longer but thank you for giving her that retirement she deserved.