A live tiger is presented on the field before LSU hosts Alabama, Saturday, November 9, 2024, at Tiger Stadium on the campus of LSU in Baton Rouge, La. STAFF PHOTO BY HILARY SCHEINUK LSU’s live, on-campus mascot Mike VII, is seen in his habitat, Friday, November 8, 2024, while greeting guests ahead of the Tigers’ matchup with Alabama Saturday in Baton Rouge, La. STAFF PHOTO BY HILARY SCHEINUK Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save As Mike the Tiger's veterinarian from 1996 to 2022, I was disappointed to learn that LSU once again brought a live tiger into Tiger Stadium.
This was a very misguided decision. We discontinued that practice years ago for good reason. Tigers are secretive, forest-dwelling animals.
In the wild, they live their lives around people who never see them because the tigers choose not to be seen. The stadium would be extremely stressful for a tiger that has never experienced such an environment. Tigers do not need the stadium experience, and they certainly have no need to roar.
It's not "fun" for them. Also, what is the point? The tiger brought into the stadium was not "Mike" the Tiger. "Mike" the Tiger is the tradition, and the tradition is the important part.
Everyone involved should do what is best for animals rather than what is wanted by a few powerful fans. While a few of my colleagues have advocated for bringing a tiger into the stadium, I question their experience with and knowledge of tigers. Everyone should do the right.
