Berlin, April 4, 2026 – The Berlin Tierpark announced today the euthanasia of Jae Jae, a 17-year-old Sumatran tiger. The decision was made after the male tiger suffered from irreversible kidney failure that could not be halted by medication, despite extensive treatment efforts.
A Difficult Farewell to a Valued Resident
“Ultimately, the team had to make the difficult decision to put him down to spare Jae Jae further suffering,” stated the Tierpark in its official announcement on Wednesday. Jae Jae had been a resident of the Berlin Tierpark since 2022, having arrived from a French zoo.
During his time in Berlin, Jae Jae, alongside 15-year-old female Mayang, fathered five cubs. The most recent addition to his lineage was a female cub born on January 2, 2026. In total, Jae Jae sired 11 offspring, playing a crucial role in the conservation of his critically endangered species.
“A part of him lives on in his offspring,” explained Andreas Knieriem, Director of the Zoo and Tierpark. “His legacy for the Sumatran tigers remains unforgettable.”
Jae Jae’s Crucial Role in Conservation
Sumatran tigers are native exclusively to the Indonesian island of Sumatra. The species has faced a drastic decline in population over recent decades, with only an estimated 400 to 600 individuals remaining. This decline is primarily attributed to poaching, driven by the illegal trade of tiger body parts for alleged medicinal purposes, and the ongoing destruction of their natural habitat.
The expansion of agricultural land, particularly for palm oil plantations, and deforestation are significant threats to the survival of these majestic animals. Jae Jae’s successful breeding efforts have provided a vital boost to the genetic diversity and overall population of Sumatran tigers within conservation programs.
The Plight of Sumatran Tigers
The conservation efforts for Sumatran tigers are paramount, given their critically endangered status. Zoos worldwide participate in breeding programs aimed at maintaining a healthy and genetically diverse population to safeguard the species from extinction. Jae Jae’s contribution to these efforts underscores the importance of such programs in protecting biodiversity.
His passing marks a sad day for the Berlin Tierpark and the global conservation community, but his legacy through his offspring will continue to contribute to the fight for the survival of Sumatran tigers.
