Lincolnshire Wildlife Park is in mourning after the passing of Dehra, a 16-year-old Bengal tiger who became a beloved figure at the park. Dehra, who had been a part of the wildlife park since 2014, died after being diagnosed with kidney failure.
She was the first tiger to arrive at the park, alongside her three cubs, when they were rehomed from a private collection.
The news of Dehra’s death has left the staff, who considered her a key member of their team, deeply saddened. Steve Nichols, the park’s manager, described the tiger as the “happiest tiger we’ve ever had” and shared that her loss has left a void that will be hard to fill.
“Dehra was like a member of staff rather than an animal here,” said Nichols, who has worked closely with the tigers for over a decade. “She’s been the best thing that’s ever happened to the park, without a doubt.”
Nichols went on to explain that the decision to put Dehra down was made after a routine check revealed total kidney failure. Despite the devastating diagnosis, the team acted quickly to ensure that the tiger did not suffer.
The Bengal tiger’s arrival at Lincolnshire Wildlife Park in 2014 marked a significant milestone for the facility. The park had just opened its doors to tigers from various backgrounds, and Dehra’s arrival was part of a broader effort to offer a long-term, safe haven for these majestic animals.
“It was probably the most frightening thing we ever did, at the same time the most satisfying to offer these cats a long-term home here,” Nichols said, recalling the early days of the park’s tiger program.
By 2016, the park became home to 12 tigers, a collection that was believed to be the largest of its kind in the UK. However, as time passed, the number of tigers dwindled. Today, the park is home to just three of these big cats, and Dehra’s death marks a poignant chapter in the park’s history.
Dehra had a special place in the hearts of the staff and visitors alike. Her energetic and joyful personality endeared her to everyone who had the privilege of meeting her. “She was the happiest tiger we’ve ever had,” Nichols remarked, adding that her loss was felt deeply across the park.
The tiger’s death was confirmed following an examination that was triggered by a cut on her paw. Unfortunately, the vet’s findings revealed that Dehra was suffering from severe kidney failure, and to prevent further pain, the difficult decision was made to euthanize her.
“Even if it’s my best mate, we won’t keep an animal alive for one day suffering,” Nichols stated, emphasizing the commitment to the animals’ well-being, even in the most difficult of circumstances.
As the park navigates this loss, Nichols expressed his deep appreciation for Dehra’s contribution to the park’s growth and success. “It was a huge thing for the park,” he said of her arrival.
Her presence not only brought joy to the team but also helped the park gain recognition for its work in caring for tigers and other wildlife.
The park’s staff, volunteers, and visitors are now remembering Dehra’s life fondly, celebrating her as one of the most memorable and loved animals to have ever called Lincolnshire Wildlife Park home.
