Mesker Park Zoo Euthanizes Longtime Jaguar Beliza
The 20-year-old jaguar, a fixture at the Evansville zoo since 2007, passed away following a medical examination.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Cats
Mesker Park Zoo in Evansville has euthanized Beliza, a 20-year-old jaguar who had been a resident since 2007. The animal died following a medical procedure after staff observed declining health and mobility.
Why it matters
The death marks the end of a long tenure for one of the zoo's most recognizable animals. It also highlights the medical challenges of managing geriatric big cats in captivity, as Beliza had lived with cancer for several years.
Beliza was 20 years old and had been living with a cancer diagnosis for six years, significantly exceeding the initial prognosis of six months. A necropsy confirmed that multiple blood clots and heart disease necessitated the final medical intervention.
The players
Mesker Park Zoo
This is a public zoo located in Evansville that houses a diverse collection of animals and participates in conservation efforts.
Beliza
A 20-year-old jaguar who served as a long-term resident at the zoo after arriving from her birthplace.
Reba
Another feline at the zoo who has been relocated to the tiger habitat while awaiting a move to the Amazonia exhibit.
The details
Keepers at the Evansville facility noted the jaguar was eating and moving less on October 20, 2026, leading to a sedated ultrasound that revealed large blood clots. The cat subsequently went into cardiac arrest, and a later necropsy confirmed significant heart and aortic damage.
Timeline
Beliza was born at Zoo New England in 2006.
The jaguar arrived at Mesker Park Zoo in 2007.
Beliza received a cancer diagnosis in 2020.
Beliza died on October 20, 2026.
Culture Shift
The transition of animals like Reba between habitats reflects the broader industry trend of adapting zoo environments to maximize the quality of life for geriatric populations. Zoos are increasingly balancing their legacy exhibits with the evolving needs of individual residents.
Visitors to Mesker Park Zoo should note that the jaguar habitat will feature changes as staff manage the remaining feline population. Reba is currently housed in the tiger habitat with future plans to shift to the Amazonia area.
The takeaway
Managing the health of senior animals requires constant monitoring of subtle behavioral shifts and routine diagnostic checkups. Families visiting the zoo can take this opportunity to learn about the specialized care provided to aging big cats.
Further reading
Learn more about local wildlife news in the Cats section.
