LSU’s live tiger tradition sparks controversy as fans protest animal’s appearance at Alabama game

The highly anticipated clash between LSU and Alabama at Death Valley this week takes on an unexpected twist with the return of a live tiger mascot on the sidelines. This marks the first such appearance since 2015 and has sparked controversy within the LSU community.

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LSU’s live tiger tradition returns, stirs up protests

For the first time in nearly a decade, LSU fans witnessed a live tiger on the sidelines as ESPN's College GameDay heads to Baton Rouge for a highly anticipated matchup with the Alabama Crimson Tide. Although the tradition of LSU’s live tiger mascots, all named “Mike,” dates back almost a century, this is the first instance since 2015 that a tiger appears so close to the action. This decision, however, has not come without significant controversy and backlash.


The live tiger planned for the game is not LSU’s current mascot, Mike VII, but rather a different tiger acquired by Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry from an exotic animal agency in Florida. This move, which was intended to bring back LSU’s historic but controversial tradition, was reportedly met with resistance from LSU officials. The university has had ethical concerns about bringing a live tiger onto the sidelines, citing the stress and potential harm caused by the loud stadium environment. However, Gov. Landry, determined to revive this tradition, announced his intentions at a September news conference, which intensified the debate among fans, students, and animal rights activists.

The live tiger mascots have a storied history at LSU, with the tradition of "Mike" beginning in 1937. However, the live mascot program was altered in 2015 following the death of Mike V, when the decision was made to halt the practice of bringing a tiger into the stadium. LSU’s ethics committee decided instead to keep Mike VII within a carefully designed habitat near the stadium to ensure the tiger’s well-being.

Public reaction and protests by animal advocates

As the news of the tiger’s return spread, opposition surged across social media and among animal rights groups. Thousands of fans and advocates voiced concerns about the impact of such a chaotic environment on the tiger, with many citing it as a “cruel and inhumane” decision. According to LSU Reveille, six student-led petitions had already amassed more than 15,000 signatures by Friday, indicating widespread disapproval.

In a peaceful protest, Adelaide Gladney, representing a coalition of students, veterinary professionals, and tiger supporters, shared that the group informed attendees about the ethical concerns associated with the decision. Their purpose, she stated, was simply to "answer questions and raise awareness."

PETA also issued a statement condemning the decision, revealing that the tiger’s owner, Mitchel Kalmanson, had faced multiple citations for violations of the Animal Welfare Act. The organization highlighted past instances of inadequate veterinary care and animal escapes, further underscoring the ethical concerns surrounding LSU’s revival of this controversial tradition.

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