London Zoo’s Sumatran tiger killed on first date
London: An endangered Sumatran tiger has been killed by another tiger at London Zoo. Male tiger Asim was brought to the zoo from a Danish safari park 10 days ago in the hope he would be the “perfect mate” for long- term resident Melati.
After spending time apart in the tiger enclosure to get used to the new arrangement, the two were then introduced to each other earlier.
But tensions “quickly escalated”, things became “more aggressive” and Melati died in a fight, the zoo said. A statement issued by the zoo said Asim was immediately moved to a separate paddock but despite the best efforts of the vets, 10- yearold Melati died. It said: “Our focus right now is on caring for Asim, as we get through this difficult event.” Staff are “heartbroken by this turn of events”, the zoo said.
Seven- year- old Asim was moved to London Zoo as part of the European- wide conservation breeding programme.
Heralding his arrival, the zoo described him as “a handsome, confident cat who is known for being very affectionate with the ladies in his life”, adding that “we’re hoping he’ll be the perfect mate for our beautiful Melati”.
In 2013, Melati gave birth to two cubs but one fell into a pool and drowned.