The 15,000 square foot habitat for the University’s beloved mascot has housed only a live oak tree and a waterfall this week as routine maintenance is completed on Mike VI’s home.
“Mike VI was kept inside his night house starting Monday, Aug. 23 so that work could be done on the habitat,” said Ginger Guttner, School of Veterinary Medicine spokeswoman.
While the Vet School provides care for the live tiger mascot, the Athletic Department is responsible for habitat maintenance.
Ronnie Haliburton, associate athletic director for facilities and grounds, said the “routine maintenance of Mike’s habitat” includes repairing stucco cracks, replacing damaged molding, re-coating stucco in the viewing area, replacing sealants and applying epoxy to waterproof below the water line at the glass viewing area.
Mike VI’s Twitter official account, @MikeTigerVI, included a message this morning about the construction.
“Back inside this morning so that the contractors can do some more work on my pool,” the tiger tweeted. “Hopefully I’ll be back out to see you after lunch.”
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Contact Nicholas Persac at [email protected]