Zoo’s Tiger Rocky Dies

SWAINTON – The Cape May County Zoo has reported that Rocky the Siberian tiger died June 24. 
Freeholder E. Marie Hayes, who oversees the Park and Zoo released the following: “Rocky was a rock star and held celebrity status at the zoo for many years.  He was a magnificent animal that delighted visitors to the zoo from the time he arrived until his passing. 
“Rocky and all the other species that are part of the AZA Species Survival Plan (SSP) are an important part of the research to learn more about the habits and behavior of endangered species and aid in the recovery.  He will be missed by all.”
Rocky was born at Six Flags Great Adventure, in Jackson April 6 2001.  He was born small and weak and his mother, sensing a weak cub, refused to take care of him. 
Rocky had to be hand-raised by veterinary staff and eventually made his way to the county zoo in April 2002.  At six weeks, he became an “Animal Ambassador” because of his story. 
He traveled across the Northeast appearing on the Today Show, CNN, NJ News 12 Pet Stop, and Fox News New York. 
The New York Times covered his story over a one-year period, and it was picked up by the Associated Press.  He was filmed by the National Geographic Channel, and Rocky became a national sensation.
Rocky almost immediately became a favorite at the zoo.  He was a Siberian tiger, the largest species of big cats on the planet.  His calm and social disposition set him apart, and he always had a friendly chuff for his favorite keepers and veterinarian (Chuffing is a greeting vocalization).
Rocky was undoubtedly the most recognized symbol of the Cape May County Zoo.  During his 16 years, he was visited by millions of people, according to a release. 
‘Rocky’ led a long healthy life, after a battle with cancer in 2014, multiple surgeries and six months of chemotherapy he did exceptionally well. 
It wasn’t until when Rocky started approaching 16 that he had any problems. Like many aging tigers, Rocky started having difficulties with his hips and hind legs. 
The staff noticed that he lost some muscle mass and appeared a little unsteady. The multiple surgeries on his right hind leg added to his issues.
His hind legs deteriorated over a short time last week.  He was euthanized June 24 after the failure of his hind legs due to the combined effects of a degenerative condition in his spine, osteoarthritis in his hips and complications from the multiple surgeries in his right hind leg.
Freeholder Director Gerald M. Thornton expressed the sentiments of the board, “We would like to thank everyone for their support of Rocky and the zoo over the years.  Rocky was a legend and favorite of the community, our zoo staff and those from around the country who visited our zoo.” 
Rocky was buried in the Zoo Courtyard, next to Numar the lion. The public is invited to visit Rocky’s memorial.