Mesker Park Zoo is mourning the loss of one of its most popular animals. WNIN’s John Gibson has the story:
The zoo and botanic garden says its beloved jaguar, Beliza, has died at the age of 20.
Beliza was born in New England in 2006 and came to Mesker the following year.
The zoo says she was the undisputed queen of Mesker’s Amazonia habitat, known for her beauty, intelligence, and fiery attitude.
Six years ago, Beliza was diagnosed with cancer and given six months to live.
The zoo says the jaguar defied the odds and lived an active and vibrant life thanks to a regimen of chemotherapy and the efforts of her dedicated care team.
Beliza was later diagnosed with advanced osteoarthritis and chronic kidney disease but allowed her team to continue to care for her.
The zoo says she died this week despite “heroic life-saving efforts.”
Mesker staff say they we will deeply miss Beliza.
