LSU might run into some trouble when it comes time to replace mascot tiger Mike VI.
The university has been using tigers named Mike as mascots since 1936. Mike VI was introduced in the role in 2007 and has been a staple at Tigers games since he arrived. Unfortunately, the Bengali-Siberian Tiger was diagnosed with spindle cell sarcoma, a terminal form of cancer.
The Advocate reports when Mike VI passes, it’s not going to be easy for LSU to replace the famous feline. They report LSU could run into problems of acquiring a new tiger since a zoo isn’t likely to give them one and acquiring a tiger would support for-profit breeding of the wild animals.
“No reputable zoo and no reputable sanctuary is going to give a tiger to LSU,” said Debra Leahy, an expert in captive wildlife protection with the Humane Society of the United States. “The only source could be a shady pseudo-sanctuary or a roadside zoo, but by perpetuating the live mascot, they are participating in exotic animal trade.”
As The Advocate notes, LSU’s past two tiger mascots came from zoos and animal sanctuaries which have been shut down by the federal government for improper care.
LSU has long been criticized by animal rights group such as PETA for their use of tigers as mascots. In a recent interview with WNSP-FM 105.5, a PETA wildlife specialist said the animals “shouldn’t be used as exploitative trophies,” and hoped LSU would opt to end the tiger mascot tradition upon Mike VI’s death.
Mike VI lives in the Mike the Tiger Habitat, a $3 million habitat next to Tiger Stadium. While it’s a state-of-the-art facility, it remains to be seen whether the building is the best place for a tiger to be. If LSU pursues acquiring another tiger after Mike VI, hopefully, it can be done with the animal’s safety in mind. Otherwise, it’s probably best they end the tradition and let the tigers roam free in the wild or at a proper sanctuary.
