Mesker Park Zoo Jaguar Dies at Age 20
The zoo is transitioning other animals after the loss of the long-time jaguar resident.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Cats
Mesker Park Zoo recently euthanized Beliza, a 20-year-old jaguar who had been a resident since 2007. The animal suffered cardiac arrest during a medical exam following observations of decreased appetite and mobility.
Why it matters
Beliza was a long-term resident of the Evansville community, having lived at the zoo for nearly two decades. Her passing follows a six-year battle with cancer, far exceeding her initial six-month life expectancy after her diagnosis in 2020.
A post-mortem necropsy revealed that Beliza succumbed to multiple blood clots in her heart and aorta alongside underlying heart disease. The jaguar arrived at the facility in 2007 after being born at Zoo New England in 2006.
The players
Mesker Park Zoo
An Evansville-based public zoological institution focused on wildlife conservation and local community education.
Beliza
A 20-year-old jaguar who served as a fixture of the Mesker Park Zoo exhibits for nearly two decades.
Reba
A feline resident at Mesker Park Zoo who is currently being relocated between habitats.
The details
Keepers at the Evansville facility noted the jaguar was eating and moving less on October 20, 2026, which prompted a sedative-based medical examination. During an ultrasound, veterinarians identified a large blood clot in her heart before the animal experienced fatal cardiac arrest. Further investigation confirmed multiple systemic clots and chronic heart conditions.
Timeline
2006: Beliza was born at Zoo New England.
2007: The jaguar arrived at Mesker Park Zoo.
2020: Beliza received a cancer diagnosis.
October 20, 2026: The animal died after medical intervention.
The Home Front
The zoo's management of geriatric animal care and habitat transitions reflects the standard protocols practiced by modern accredited facilities. This process ensures that habitat utilization remains optimized as populations shift due to age-related health needs.
Local families planning a visit to the zoo should note that staff are currently managing transitions, including moving Reba to the tiger habitat. Long-term plans indicate that Reba will eventually be moved into the Amazonia habitat.
The takeaway
Beliza's story highlights the success of long-term veterinary care in managing terminal diagnoses in captive animals. Residents may want to check the official Mesker Park Zoo website for updates on when the Amazonia habitat will reopen to the public following these transitions.
Further reading
Learn more about local feline welfare and habitat management in Cats.
