Moki’s Passing

December 15, 2020

Just a few months ago, we had to say goodbye to Mona Tiger. This week we had another hard goodbye for her beloved enclosure-mate, Moki. Both girls lived to see 22 years of age, which is impressive for a tiger. Moki had a rapid decline in the past couple weeks, showing signs of neurological changes. She was having more and more trouble walking and was getting weaker as the days progressed. It wasn’t and easy decision to make, but we knew that her body was not going to be able to support her spirit and we needed to let her go.

Moki was a bit more reserved than Mona, but that certainly didn’t mean that she didn’t enjoy the simple pleasures of a tiger’s life. Moki enjoyed enrichment and special treats from visitors. She enjoyed coming to the fence and talking with tour guests. Recently she found a firehose hammock and decided it was the best place to soak up some rays. Right up to the end, she was full of chuffles and would follow us up and down her fence line to see what we were doing or if we had any yummy treats for her.

Moki and Mona will be greatly missed. they have been ambassadors for tigers everywhere. I now that many of us will miss Moki’s beautiful eyes, her fantastic stripes, and her happy disposition. For me, it was hard to see Moki without Mona. her passing gives me a bit of peace that she is no longer by herself after having her sidekick by her side for 22 years. 

Moki’s death marks the end of a chapter for us. Moki, Mona and two other tigers, Emerson and Fenimore, all came to call Carolina Tiger Rescue home after a facility closed in Missouri, hence how the Mo Girls got their names. With the loss of Moki, we close a chapter on that rescue. Twelve years ago we opened our doors to bring them home. Now it is time to offer them all a loving farewell. 

Thank you for supporting the animals. We know that it’s never easy to hear of their passing, but know that it means we have done what we promised – we have offered them a safe and loving home for the rest of their lives. It is with your support we that we are able to do that. 

With much appreciation,

Kathryn Bertok, Assistant Director