The Tulsa Zoo is mourning the loss of one of its tigers that was euthanized on Wednesday.

According to the zoo, Gahara, a male Malayan tiger, who was being treated for lameness in one of his legs, was euthanized after a physical exam revealed that cancer had spread to parts of his body.

“Gahara was an incredible tiger,” said Stephanie Kain, Tulsa Zoo Zoological Manager for Sea Lions and Large Carnivores. “He loved lounging in his exhibit pool with his front paws floating at the surface and his eyes closed. He also excelled at taking naps in the sun. We were all very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with him and get to know him. His passing has left a big hole in many hearts.”

Officials say the 17-year-old tiger was brought to the Tulsa Zoo in 2008 and briefly left for Fresno Chaffee Zoo in 2015 before returning to Tulsa in 2021 as part of the "Species Survival Plan."

Tulsa Zoo officials say Gahara has four offspring, one even has two cubs of their own. The zoo says its newest Malayan tiger cub, Dara, is a descendant of Gahara.