In February 2013, Cocoa, a female Amur tiger, was captured walking through the snow within her enclosure at Kushiro Zoo in Hokkaido. She was known for her physical challenges and remarkable resilience.
Sadly, on June 18, Cocoa passed away at the age of 17. Zoo officials at Kushiro Zoo announced her passing. Staff observed signs of distress in Cocoa through surveillance footage of her enclosure. Despite immediate emergency care provided by keepers and a veterinarian, she died approximately 15 minutes later, around 7:30 p.m.
Cocoa's life began in May 2008, when she was born at the zoo in a near-stillborn state. She had a congenital condition that caused her hind legs to stiffen, preventing her from straightening them fully. Her survival was initially uncertain, but she overcame the odds and became a beloved figure for zoo visitors.
In her later years, Cocoa's activity slowed. From the age of 15, she largely stopped running outdoors and spent most of her time resting on a mattress within her enclosure. Her enclosure remained on display, as she seemed to enjoy watching visitors, though viewing hours were shortened to minimize any potential stress. The zoo had suspended her public exhibition on June 17 to closely monitor her condition.
Zoo officials expressed their gratitude to everyone who had loved and supported Cocoa, noting her inspiring impact on many people. A memorial area has been established in front of her enclosure, where visitors have placed flowers to honor the tiger who touched so many hearts.
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