Columbus Zoo tiger dies from pneumonia caused by COVID-19

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium announced Wednesday that a tiger died of complications with COVID-19.

The zoo announced on social media that a 14-year-old Amur tiger named Jupiter died Sunday after developing pneumonia caused by COVID-19. According to National Geographic, certain types of animals including big cats are particularly susceptible to catching the coronavirus.

Jupiter was receiving long-term treatment for chronic underlying illnesses, which made him more susceptible to this virus, the zoo said in a release. Jupiter is the first and only animal to succumb to COVID-19, according to the Columbus Zoo.

When did Jupiter get sick?

Jupiter started acting ill on June 22, the release said. He was not interested in eating, and was reluctant to stand, move or interact with keepers. When this continued into the next day, Jupiter was anesthetized for examination and treatment.

The zoo said the initial diagnosis was an infection and staff began treatment. Jupiter still did not improve. The following day, he was given additional treatments and received more testing. Although he appeared stable, Jupiter passed away overnight.

What is the Columbus Zoo doing to help stop other animals, staff members from getting COVID-19?

As a precautionary measure, the zoo is requiring staff working with cats, great apes and mustelids (otters and wolverines) to wear masks when within six feet of these animals. They are all more susceptible to contracting COVID-19.

Jupiter was born at the Moscow Zoo on July 9, 2007 and arrived at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium on March 19, 2015 after spending time at the Zoo Dvur Kralove in the Czech Republic. The zoo said he sired nine cubs, six of which were born at the Columbus Zoo, contributing to the future of this endangered species.

Cbehrens@dispatch.com