By Fox23.com News Staff
TULSA, Okla. — Tulsa Zoo announced the passing of its beloved jaguar, Ixchel.
The zoo said at nearly 22-years-old, Ixchel had reached a remarkable age for her species.
In her later years, she experienced age-related health and mobility changes, and when her condition declined more rapidly, the zoo’s veterinary and animal care teams made the decision to humanely euthanize her.
In Ixchel’s final moments, she was surrounded by the people who knew and loved her most, the zoo said.
The zoo said Ixchel was a beautiful cat with a bold, spirited personality. She had a way of bringing joy to her caretakers each day, whether through her playful energy, her clever attempts to sneak extra treats or the many ways she kept both her team and her companion Caipora on their toes.
Ixchel arrived at the Tulsa Zoo in 2011. She was a devoted mother who raised four cubs, each of whom went on to thrive at other AZA-accredited zoos.
Ixchel also formed meaningful bonds throughout her life, from her time with her mate Bebeto, to her close companionship with Caipora in her later years.
With Ixchel’s passing, Caipora’s care team is keeping a close eye on her and she continues to eat well and is behaving normally.
The zoo said it is thankful for the time it had with Ixchel and she will be deeply missed.
