The search for LSU’s live tiger mascot could be completed as soon August 2017, according to a press release.
Mike VII will not attend home football games in Tiger Stadium, but would be out in his yard for the Tiger faithful to see.
LSU’s tiger habitat will also undergo renovations before introducing Mike VII, which would turn the habitat into an accredited tiger sanctuary.
“Becoming an accredited sanctuary means that LSU has met high standards of excellence in animal care and is operating ethically and responsibly,” the press release states. “LSU believes that these changes are in the best interest of the longevity and ethical management of the LSU tiger mascot program.”
Mike VI was humanely euthanized in October after battling spindle cell sarcoma. He has been at LSU since October 2007.
LSU’s attending veterinarian, David Baker, is seeking a young, male tiger. As with Mikes IV, V and VI, Mike VII will be a donated tiger from a rescue facility. LSU does not support for-profit tiger breeding, according to the release.
