AKRON, Ohio — The Akron Zoo's beloved female snow leopard, Shanti, died Dec. 14 after suffering from chronic heart and kidney issues. 

What You Need To Know

  • A veterinary exam confirmed the progression of advanced chronic kidney and heart diseases in Shanti

  • Over the last few weeks, her condition has worsened and the care team made the decision to euthanize her

  • Shanti, 13, was called the "Mother of the Akron Zoo" by workers and guests

In the last few weeks, Shanti's health continued to decline, and zoo officials made the decision to euthanize her. 

Shanti was a guest favorite at the zoo, often called the mother of the Akron Zoo.

“Shanti was the embodiment of the Akron Zoo,” said Doug Piekarz, the president and CEO. “Our guests were able to connect with her through her story, and her legacy will live on through her grown cubs. Thank you to our animal care and veterinary teams, who have provided Shanti with exceptional care throughout the years, especially at the end of her life. Shanti will be missed by the entire Akron Zoo family, including our visitors.”   

Shanti, 13, was born on June 16, 2008 at the Binder Park Zoo in Michigan and was moved to the Akron Zoo in 2009. Most snow leopards live up to around 15 years old. During her time, she welcomed eight snow leopard cubs – Raj and Sabu in 2012, Malaya and Makalu in 2014, Altai, Layan and Asha in 2016 and Baya in 2019, according to the zoo. 

“Shanti was an amazing cat to work with,” said lead carnivore keeper, Mark Schneider. “She was the best mother and she really loved interacting with us keepers. It was an honor to be part of her journey.”

The zoo is currently working with the Snow Leopard Species Survival Plan on a recommendation for a female snow leopard to pair with the Akron Zoo's male snow leopard, Tai Lung.

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