Brookfield Zoo Mourns Beloved Amur Tiger Malena, Euthanized Due to Health Crisis

BROOKFIELD, Ill. (WLS) — Brookfield Zoo is mourning the death of Malena, a beloved Amur tiger, who was humanely euthanized on Friday following a sudden health crisis.

Zoo officials reported that staff noticed Malena had shown a loss of appetite and low energy over the past few days. A veterinarian examined her and found severe kidney failure and life-threatening heart arrhythmias.

Due to the severity of her condition, the zoo’s veterinary experts made the difficult decision to euthanize her. A preliminary necropsy indicated that a cancerous process had compromised her kidney function, but complete results will take several weeks.

Malena arrived at Brookfield Zoo in 2020 and made headlines the following year as the first Amur tiger in North America to undergo a successful total hip replacement.

Known for her calm demeanor and majestic presence, Malena formed a strong bond with her caregivers. They fondly remember her morning greetings of chuffs and what they called her ‘singing,’ along with her particular love for her beds.

The zoo expressed its deep sorrow, stating, ‘Malena’s loss is deeply felt by all of us: our staff, volunteers, and the many guests who were moved by her quiet grace and beauty.’

The Amur tiger species is critically endangered, with fewer than 500 remaining in the wild. Malena’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes and memories from zoo visitors and animal lovers alike.

As one visitor shared, ‘I feel so lucky to have seen her. She left a mark on everyone who knew her.’ Another wrote, ‘Thank you for your care and for making the compassionate choice for her.’ With her passing, the zoo hopes to honor her memory and continue to raise awareness about the endangered Amur tiger.