It is with the deepest regret that we have had to say goodbye to our beautiful Sumatran tigress, Puna.
She was the epitome of what a Sumatran tiger should be. Her striking markings, sleek coat, and bright amber eyes could take your breath away. These stunning features helped make her the perfect ambassador for what is a Critically Endangered subspecies of tiger, out in the wild.
Puna was our oldest resident, just shy of her 21st birthday, an exceptional age for any big cat, and the second-oldest Sumatran tiger in Europe! Puna was one of the original cats for many of our team, a lasting memory of our early days when we started as the Wildlife Heritage Foundation in 2000. Born at Heidelberg Zoo in Germany in 2004, she had to be hand-reared before joining us here in Kent as a sweet and gentle one-year-old in 2005. Upon arrival, she was adopted by Indy the tiger, and they lived together for many years.
Due to how endangered Sumatran tigers are, and because of Puna’s highly ranked genetics, she was later joined by Nias as part of the International Breeding Programme. It was love at first sight. In 2008, Puna gave birth to male cubs Asu and Bawa, embracing motherhood with ease and grace. The cubs were a handful and even spent time with their dad and great-aunt Indy. In 2011, Puna and Nias welcomed two more male cubs, Toba and Kubu. Once again, she proved to be a fantastic, attentive, and caring mother. Puna has left a powerful legacy within the breeding programme, becoming a grandmother and even a great-grandmother.
A firm favourite with staff and guests over the years, she had a knack for winning hearts and securing extra treats. Her signature moves included poking out her tongue, rubbing her head against the mesh, and delivering the sweetest chuffs. She never said no to an extra bit of chicken! Puna had a loving nature… unless you happened to be wearing a hi-vis jacket or were carrying large equipment. Then, you’d quickly see her fiery side!
In her later years, she naturally began to slow down and was closely monitored by our keepers and vets. She experienced spinal stiffness and other age-related issues typical in elderly cats. Despite trying a range of treatments, we were unable to maintain her comfort at a sufficient level, and the difficult decision was made to say goodbye.
Puna will always be remembered as the beautiful and affectionate queen of the Sanctuary. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.