Report: LSU Under Fire For Plan To Have Live Caged Tiger At Alabama Football Game

Beginning in 1936, LSU Tigers football games featured a live tiger in a cage as the university’s mascot. This practice was discontinued in 2015 with Mike VI after veterinarians recommended against it due to health concerns. However, the tradition is set to make a comeback on Saturday for LSU’s game against rival Alabama, sparking mixed reactions. The decision was made by Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, though the live tiger will not be LSU’s current mascot, Mike VII, who resides in a spacious habitat on campus.

LSU Fans Slam Governor’s Decision To Import Live Tiger For Alabama Game

LSU plans to bring in a tiger from out of state to act as the unofficial mascot when the team faces off against the Crimson Tide. Governor Jeff Landry had previously expressed enthusiasm about returning the tradition of a live tiger at games, calling it “an unbelievable opportunity” during a September news conference. However, using LSU’s mascot, Mike VII, was quickly ruled out due to concerns for the animal’s well-being, leading Landry to explore other options—much to the dismay of some fans.

One fan voiced their frustration online: “This is so stupid. Landry didn’t even go to LSU. Why does he have such a hard-on for this? Is it just the need to dunk on ‘experts’? Shame on the vet politicians… giving him cover.” Unsurprisingly, PETA has also criticized the decision, stating, “Whether the tiger is confined to campus or shipped in from elsewhere, no reputable facility would subject a tiger to such chaos and stress.”

Twitter user Zach Bacon echoed these concerns, saying, “We heard everyone’s concerns about traumatizing Mike. So instead we’re renting some random tiger and traumatizing them instead.” Despite the backlash, Landry remains firm in his decision. LSU will have a tiger on the sidelines against Alabama, regardless of the controversy.