Mike the Tiger: The Enduring Symbol of Louisiana State University
Since the early days of athletics in Baton Rouge, the Bengal tiger has been a part of the LSU tradition. More than just a mascot, Mike embodies the spirit, pride, and relentless energy of LSU, captivating hearts and igniting the passion of fans across the nation. This article explores the fascinating history of Mike, from his origins to the traditions that surround him.
The Origins of a Mascot
In the early 1930s, Louisiana State University sought to establish a live mascot that would embody the fierce spirit and pride of their athletics. The idea was to have a live tiger as a lasting symbol, one that could rally the emotions of students, alumni, and fans alike.
The journey to acquire the first tiger began with a student-led fundraising campaign, which successfully raised the necessary funds to purchase a live tiger from the Little Rock Zoo in Arkansas.
Born on October 10, 1935, the first Mike was purchased from the Little Rock Zoo with money raised by collecting 25 cents from each LSU student for a total of $750. Originally named Sheik, the new mascot was renamed in honor of Mike Chambers, LSU's athletic trainer at the time, who was the person most responsible for bringing him to the school. (It was later discovered that "Sheik" may have been fond of his original name, because even years later, handlers could get him to roar just by calling "Sheik!") Mike assumed his duties as the living symbol of LSU only three days after arriving on campus on October 21, 1936.
Mike I quickly became a beloved figure, making appearances at games and events, and his presence electrified crowds and intimidated opponents. Over the years, the tradition of having a live tiger mascot has seen several iterations, each bringing its own unique charm and presence to the role. The legacy of Mike I set a precedent that has been carried forward by his successors, each of whom has played a significant role in maintaining the spirit and fervor of LSU.
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Evolution of the Mascot
As time progressed, the evolution of LSU's mascot saw changes in how Mike the Tiger was housed and cared for, reflecting broader shifts in attitudes toward animal welfare and conservation. The early years saw Mike housed in relatively modest accommodations, but by the mid-20th century, efforts were made to improve his living conditions. The evolution also included advancements in veterinary care and enrichment activities, ensuring that each subsequent Mike enjoyed a higher quality of life. These changes were driven by a growing awareness of the importance of providing a stimulating and healthy environment for captive animals.
In addition to physical improvements, the evolution of Mike the Tiger included a shift in how the mascot interacted with the community. Early on, Mike was primarily a symbol of athletic prowess, but over time, his role expanded to include broader community engagement and educational outreach. The current Mike the Tiger, known as Mike VII, arrived at LSU in 2017 and quickly became a beloved figure on campus.
Mike I (1936-1956)
In 1936, the original Mike was purchased from the Little Rock Zoo for $750, with money contributed by the student body. The first Mike was housed in the Baton Rouge Zoo for one year before a permanent home was constructed near Tiger Stadium.
Mike the Tiger is the mascot of Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and serves as the graphic image of LSU sports. By tradition the tiger is a live Bengal tiger, although the current mascot and his two immediate predecessors are mixed-breeds. LSU teams are called the Fighting Tigers and Lady Tigers, with "Lady Tigers" used only for women's teams in sports that are also sponsored for men, and the university's football team plays its home games in Tiger Stadium. LSU first adopted its "Tigers" nickname in the fall of 1896. The moniker references Confederate era military regiments; the Louisiana troops of Robert E.
Way back in the fall of 1896, coach A.W. According to Arthur W. Bergeron, Jr., PhD. and the “Guide to Louisiana Confederate Military Units, 1861-1865” (LSU Press, 1989), the name Louisiana Tigers evolved from a volunteer company nicknamed the Tiger Rifles, which was organized in New Orleans. This company became a part of a battalion commanded by Major Chatham Roberdeau Wheat and was the only company of that battalion to wear the colorful Zouave uniform. That nickname in time was applied to all of the Louisiana troops of Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia. The tiger symbol came from the famous Washington Artillery of New Orleans. A militia unit that traces its history back to the 1830s, the Washington Artillery had a logo that featured a snarling tiger’s head. These two units first gained fame at the Battle of First Manassas on July 21, 1861. Thanks to Arthur W.
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In the 1950s, Mike was kidnapped by Tulane fans before a Tiger-Green Wave football game. He was found, and returned safely in New Orleans-he and his cage had been sprayed Tulane green. The original Mike lived 20 years before dying of kidney disease in 1956. A few days after Mike I's death, a resolution endorsing the purchase of another tiger was introduced in the Louisiana legislature and a fund was set up by LSU students to underwrite the cost.
According to the book “Mike the Tiger: The Roar of LSU,” a student body vote declared the majority thought Mike I needed to prove his manhood and produce cubs. When Desdemona caught sight of Mike I, she snorted and growled. The lack of tiger sex to phone home about quickly became a problem for the late Jim Corbett, the director of sports information at the University from 1945-55. “Can you imagine the hit LSU would have taken if the word got out Mike [I] was not macho?” Corbett questioned then. “I looked [the name Desdemona] up. She was the sexy wife of Othello in the Shakespeare tragedy. Mike I was on campus for nine years when he met Desdamona in 1945.
Mike II (1956-1958)
Mike II had a short but somewhat mysterious life. He was born on February 28, 1956, at the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans and was chosen because his paws were larger than those of the other cubs. He arrived secretly on campus on Sept. 28, 1956. Mike’s unveiling occurred the next day, Sept. 29, opening day of football season. A ceremony was held, during which Enos Parker presented a check for $1,500 to George Douglas, superintendent of the Audubon Zoo.
Legend has it that less than a month after his arrival at LSU, Mike II died of pneumonia, at only eight months of age. Reportedly, Mike II was then secretly buried under a willow tree along the Mississippi River by newly appointed athletic director Jim Corbett, campus police chief C. R. “Dick” Anderson, and LSU Athletic Department business manager Jack Gilmore. Another cub of the right age was located at the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, according to Gilmore.
Eleven years before, the Tiger Athletic Foundation said athletic department trainer Chellis “Mike” Chambers along with athletic director T.P. Heard, intramural swimming coach William G. On Oct. Mike I died in 1956 and Mike II arrived soon after. But, the new tiger died of pneumonia after one month. Then-athletic department business manager Jack Gilmore said in The Times-Picayune that he, Corbett and then campus police chief C. R. “When [Corbett] got word the first Mike II died, he was already thinking in PR terms,” Gilmore said. Gilmore quickly located another tiger cub in a Seattle zoo, and soon the second Mike II took up his residence on campus.
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To explain Mike's absence, and after much rumor, the LSU student newspaper, The Daily Reveille, printed a statement that the young tiger needed time alone to adjust to his new home and position as mascot, with its attendant excitement. All rumors of Mike II's death and replacement were denied, and the school claimed that he had finally adjusted. The second Mike II reigned at LSU for only one season.
In addition to Gilmore’s testimony, several pieces of evidence support the legend that the original Mike II died and was replaced by another young tiger. Photographs of Mike II taken before and after his convalescence are clearly of two different tigers (facial markings of tigers are as unique as fingerprints), and he seemed to have grown at a tremendous rate. All rumors of the death and replacement of Mike II were denied.
Mike III (1957-1976)
Mike III was born on November 26, 1957, and arrived from the Seattle Zoo just in time for LSU's 1958 National Championship football season. In 1958, Jim Corbett and Jack Gilmore located and purchased Mike III from the Seattle zoo. The LSU student body raised $1,050 for his purchase and transportation (though the final purchase price was only $950, with an additional $100 for transportation). Mike III was introduced to the general public at the first home game of the 1958 season, on Oct. 4 against Hardin-Simmons University (LSU won 20-6).
During Mike III's 18-year reign, LSU won three Southeastern Conference football championships (1958, 1961, 1970) and eight of 13 bowl games. Mike III died of old age in 1976 after the only losing LSU football season of his lifetime. The mascot's death affected the students and faculty so greatly that the vet at the time, W.
TAF said Mike III is the only tiger mascot known to have growled on command. Samuels was able to get Mike III to growl by saying “Get ‘em Mike.” TAF said during one LSU-Alabama game, Alabama’s players were crowded around Mike III’s cage.
Mike IV (1976-1990)
Mike IV, originally called Jerry, was born at Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida in 1974. He was donated by August A. Busch III and was two years old when he came to LSU in August 1976. He arrived at LSU on Aug. Mike spent the summer of 1981 at the Little Rock Zoo while his enclosure was being expanded from 400 to 1,100 square feet.
One memorable incident involving Mike IV began in the early-morning hours of November 28, 1981 when pranksters cut the locks on Mike's cage. He escaped and roamed around campus, enjoying his newfound freedom. LSUPD notified Mike IV’s vet at the time, Dr. Bivin was armed with a shotgun and tranquilizer, according to The Times-Picayune article. LSU police called Dr. to tell him that Mike was in the middle of North Stadium Drive. He wandered into the Bernie Moore Track Stadium, where Dr. Bivin shot him with a tranquilizer pistol (it took three shots to sedate him).
In April 1990, Mike developed a neurologic problem that resulted in mild lameness. In addition, he was getting on in years and was beginning to slow down. The Baton Rouge Zoo offered to take in the aging mascot. Mike IV was put to sleep on March 3, 1995.
Mike V (1990-2007)
Mike V was considered to have the best personality of all the tigers that have served as LSU's symbol. Originally named Stevie, he was donated by Dr. Thomas and Caroline Atchison of the Animal House Zoological Park in Moulton, Alabama.
Born on October 19, 1989, the 7-pound (3.2 kg) baby tiger was introduced to LSU fans at a basketball game in February 1990. Avid LSU supporter Charles Becker, a member of the LSU booster group the Tammany Tigers, put Dr. Sheldon Bivin of the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine in touch with the Atchisons. He was introduced to LSU fans at the LSU-Alabama basketball game on Feb. 21, 1990, and he was moved into his home, north of Tiger Stadium, on April 30, 1990.
Mike V moved into a beautiful new 15,000-square foot habitat on Aug. In March 2007, Mike V officially began a three-stage retirement. His personal vet, David Baker, cited his age and health as reasons. Mike V died on May 18, 2007, at 2:23 AM, which coincided with the undergraduate commencement ceremonies. He had been anesthetized and brought to the LSU SVM on May 16 so that Dr. David Baker could determine the cause of recent weight loss and respiratory difficulty. During the examination, it was determined that Mike had a large amount of fluid around his lungs. Emergency surgery was performed, and the fluid successfully removed.
However, LSU chancellor Sean O'Keefe rejected PETA's request by stating that LSU would acquire a new tiger. O'Keefe further defended LSU's decision by noting that four of the previous five Mikes lived to be at least 17 years, nearly twice the normal 8-10 year lifespan of tigers in the wild. LSU did not wish to buy a tiger but instead sought for one to be donated to the school.
Mike VI (2007-2016)
A 2-year-old Bengal/Siberian mix formerly known as “Roscoe,” Mike VI was donated to LSU in August of 2007 by Great Cats of Indiana in Idaville, Ind., a nonprofit sanctuary and rescue facility for big cats and other large carnivores. LSU veterinarian Dr. Mike VI arrived in Baton Rouge on Aug. 25, 2007, and he was originally scheduled to be quarantined for two weeks in the “night house” of his habitat across the street from Tiger Stadium.
Mike VI was released into the outside portion of his habitat on Sept. 1, making his first public appearance before a throng of adoring LSU fans. He was officially designated as the successor to Mike V on Sept. 8, when LSU played host to Virginia Tech. Six days later, on Sept.
Mike VI attended 33 of 58 home games between his arrival in 2007 and the first scheduled game of the 2015 season. In 2007, he attended all but the first home football game. In 2008, he attended the first two home games. In 2009, he attended all but the first home game. In 2010, he attended all but two home games, and in 2011, he attended every home game. In 2012, he attended four games and missed four due to either a wet field or his unwillingness to load. In 2013, he attended three games, and in 2014, he did not attend any home games. Mike VI’s final appearance at an LSU Football game was on Sept.
In late May of 2016, Mike VI was diagnosed with a spindle cell sarcoma, a type of cancer. On Oct. 3, Mike was taken to the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine for observation and two days later in a press conference it was announced that the cancer had returned and spread. Tiger fans came to his habitat to offer well-wishes and take pictures with Mike VI before he was moved to “hospice care” inside the facility on Oct. On Oct.
Mike VII (2017-Present)
LSU announced on January 19, 2017, a timeline concerning searching for a tiger to become Mike VII, hoping to have him join an incoming freshman class in August 2017. Additionally, they announced the would-be Mike VII would no longer visit the stadium during game days. The school also attempted to have Mike's habitat accredited as a tiger sanctuary.
"Roscoe" arrived in Baton Rouge on Saturday, August 25, 2007, after a plane ride from Indiana and was kept quarantined in the "night house" in the LSU habitat, away from the public. On August 31, 2007, LSU officials decided that the tiger was adjusting well and allowed him into the public habitat during morning outings. He was returned to the night house each evening. On September 8, 2007, LSU staff acknowledged that "He's Mike VI" in a press release.
On August 1, LSU announced that it had located a 9-month-old male Siberian-Bengal hybrid tiger that may become Mike VII. The tiger was donated from an Okeechobee, Florida sanctuary that had changed owners and practices after a prosecution of the previous owner. The tiger, named Harvey, arrived on campus on August 15 to begin a one-week quarantine before officially becoming Mike VII.
On the first day of the fall semester at LSU, Mike VII officially began his reign on Monday, Aug. 21, 2017. “Harvey” arrived on campus Aug. 15 was housed in the night house of the tiger habitat. The start of MIke VII’s reign ended a 314-day span without the live mascot on the LSU campus, the longest in school history. Mike VII entered his habitat on the same day the shadow of a total solar eclipse traversed the United States for the first time since June 8, 1918. An unfortunate coincidence also coincided with Mike VII’s introduction to the LSU campus. As “Harvey” became “Mike VII,” a tropical depression named “Harvey” regenerated in the southern Gulf of Mexico. Mike VII’s formal welcome by the University scheduled for Aug. 22 was postponed due to heavy rain. However, on Sept.
Mike the Tiger enjoys the cold weather on Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, in his habitat on LSU campus. Mike the Tiger’s status as a bachelor with one sweet crib has mostly been solidified since the completion of several additions to his enclosure in 2017.
The Habitat
In 2005, a new $3 million habitat was created for Mike. The Tiger Athletic Foundation (TAF) raised funds, entirely from private sources, to subsidize the construction project. The habitat (situated between Tiger Stadium and the Pete Maravich Assembly Center) features state-of-the-art technologies and includes among its amenities lush plantings, a waterfall, a flowing stream that empties into a wading pond, and rocky plateaus. The habitat ranks among the largest and finest tiger preserves in the country and expanded Mike's home from 2,000 to 15,000 square feet (1,400 m2). It also features research, conservation, and husbandry programs, as well as educational, interpretive, and recreational activities.
The backdrop of Mike’s Habitat features an Italianate tower - a campanile - that creates a visual bridge to the architectural vernacular that is the underpinning of the entire LSU campus. This spectacular habitat allows for state-of-the-art technologies, research, conservation and husbandry programs, as well as educational, interpretive and recreational activities. In preparation for the arrival of Mike VII in the summer of 2017, several enhancements were made to the habitat. The comfort rock is a naturalistic element within the habitat that provides a heated or cooled surface for ultimate relaxation in Mike’s Habitat. At a cost of approximately $950,000, the project was fully funded through the Tiger Athletic Foundation. Many of the enhancements were made possible through a generous donation from Kelly and Harper Spears. Additionally, funding from supporters of TAF’s Mike the Tiger Brick Program helped cover cost of this project and future maintenance of the habitat. The tiger habitat and LSU’s animal care plan are licensed by the USDA.
Dr. Rhett Stout, who oversees his overall healthcare and well-being. Besides Dr. with the specialized healthcare needs of Mike. veterinary students. Mike the Tiger eats 10-15 pounds daily. diet, the same commercial food used for most of the large cats at the zoo. in 5 lb. logs and has the consistency of hamburger meat. needs.
Traditions and Symbolism
Until 2016, on home football game days, Mike's cage on wheels was topped by the LSU cheerleaders as it rode through Tiger Stadium before the start of the game, and was parked by the opponent's locker room at the southeast end of Tiger Stadium, forcing opposing players to pass by Mike's cage in order to reach their locker room (However, Mike is never forced into his trailer: if he does not go in on his own, he remains in his habitat. For years, Mike’s ride through Tiger Stadium before home games in a travel trailer topped by the LSU cheerleaders was a school tradition. Before entering the stadium, his cage on wheels is parked next to the opponent’s locker room in the southeast end of the stadium. Tradition dictated that for every growl elicited by Mike before a football game, the Tigers would score a touchdown that night. For many years, Mike was prompted to roar by pounding on the cage. The Tiger mascot stopped traveling with the LSU team in 1972 when his cage overturned on Airline Highway in an accident en route to an alumni event in Shreveport. Mike IV traveled on multiple occasions, as he appeared at a Mardi Gras parade in 1984, the 1985 Sugar Bowl and two LSU’s basketball games in the Louisiana Superdome.
LSU has a costumed mascot also named Mike. Mike the Tiger Mascot appears at LSU sporting events (as the live Mike the Tiger does not leave his habitat as of 2016, and previously did not attend away games for some time) and also appears at several LSU-related functions. In August 2007, Mike the Tiger Mascot was featured on a This Is SportsCenter commercial with LSU alum Shaquille O'Neal. In 2005, Team Mike was formed by a group of students and has carried on its tradition at LSU. This team of students help Mike get to his games and events on time, help him with his costumes, and bring him to Walt Disney World every January to compete in a mascot competition.
Mike the Tiger is more than just a mascot; he is a powerful symbol that embodies the values and spirit of LSU. The tiger, as a species, represents strength, courage, and resilience-qualities that resonate deeply with the university community. The presence of Mike the Tiger on campus serves as a constant reminder of these values. His majestic appearance and regal demeanor inspire admiration and respect, encouraging students to strive for excellence in their academic and athletic pursuits.
Additionally, Mike the Tiger represents the university’s commitment to conservation and education. By caring for a live tiger, LSU emphasizes the importance of wildlife preservation and the need to protect endangered species. This commitment is reflected in the educational programs and outreach efforts that accompany Mike’s role as a mascot.
Mike the Tiger has a rich history filled with interesting and fun facts that add to his legendary status. For instance, did you know that Mike's roar can be heard up to a mile away? This powerful vocalization is a testament to his strength and serves as a thrilling reminder of his presence on campus. Another fascinating fact is that Mike the Tiger has his own social media presence.
Mike the Tiger’s habitat is equipped with a live webcam, allowing fans to watch him in real-time from anywhere in the world. This feature has become incredibly popular, providing an opportunity for people to observe Mike’s behaviors and routines.
Community Engagement and Legacy
The impact of Mike the Tiger on LSU spirit and community cannot be overstated. As a symbol of pride and strength, Mike unites the LSU community, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity.
Mike the Tiger also plays a significant role in community outreach and engagement. Through educational programs, appearances at events, and his social media presence, Mike helps to promote important messages about wildlife conservation and the role of tigers in the ecosystem. Furthermore, Mike the Tiger’s impact extends beyond the university and into the broader community. His presence at local events and his involvement in charitable activities endear him to residents of Baton Rouge and beyond. Mike serves as a bridge between the university and the local community, fostering goodwill and strengthening the bond between LSU and its neighbors.
Mike the Tiger’s engagement with fans and alumni is a testament to his role as a beloved ambassador for LSU. Through various events, appearances, and digital platforms, Mike maintains a strong connection with the LSU community, ensuring that fans and alumni remain engaged and connected with their alma mater.
In addition to his physical appearances, Mike the Tiger’s social media presence plays a crucial role in engaging with fans and alumni. His accounts are regularly updated with photos, videos, and news, providing a window into his daily life and activities. These updates allow fans to stay connected with Mike no matter where they are, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Mike the Tiger’s engagement efforts also extend to educational and community outreach programs. By participating in events that promote wildlife conservation and education, Mike helps to raise awareness and inspire action. These programs often involve collaborations with schools, community organizations, and conservation groups, amplifying the impact of Mike’s message and reaching a broader audience.
The legacy of Mike the Tiger at LSU is one of enduring spirit, pride, and community. From his origins in the 1930s to the present day, Mike has been a symbol of strength and resilience, embodying the values that define Louisiana State University.
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