History
Choi Hu was a Siberian tiger who was purchased on the black market when she was only three weeks old. At the time, her owners lived on a small farm in Washington state. During her time in the Pacific Northwest, Choi Hu adapted well to the climate and was given a sizeable enough enclosure to live in.
However, Choi Hu’s owners divorced, resulting in direct refusal by both parties to care for her. During this time, Choi Hu faced starvation, medical neglect and even the looming threat of euthanasia. Fortunately, the Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington stepped in and, by publicizing Choi Hu’s plight, was able to raise the emergency funds need for them to provide her with care until a permanent home could be found. Safe Haven responded quickly by building a new tiger enclosure for Choi Hu’s arrival in 2009.
At Safe Haven Choi Hu had been able to enjoy many “firsts,” such as exposure to water and playing in our pools. Even though she had her own in-ground pool, Choi Hu loved to be hosed down. Her other favorite enrichment items included pumpkins, meat stuffed piñatas and abstract painting.
Choi Hu was our eldest tiger, but you would never know it. She was still very active until the last few months of her life, running and playing along the fence of her enclosure, chuffing at people as they walk past.
Choi Hu had been with us for 8 years.
About Siberian Tigers
Siberian, or Amur, tigers are the largest cats in the world and are considered endangered, with only an estimated population of 400-500 remaining. They primarily live in Russia’s birch forests, with a life span of 10-15 years in the wild, and up to 20 years in captivity. Their survival is mostly threatened by poachers and the illegal trade of tigers and their parts. There are believed to be more privately owned tigers in the U.S. then there are in the wild.
About Choi Hu
Common Name: Siberian Tiger
Gender: Female
Age at Death: 21 years
