David G. Baker

Mike the Tiger-the only live tiger mascot in the United States-is an iconic presence on LSU's campus. From his tiger sanctuary next to Tiger Stadium, he draws a steady stream of fans, adults and children alike. In this new book about LSU's favorite tiger, Mike's former veterinarian David G. Baker reflects on his decades of caring for three of the live mascots, beginning with Mike V in 1996. Baker gives fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpses of the tigers as he recounts episodes such as Mike VI's cancer diagnosis, treatment, and death, and the search for Mike VII. He gives details about the tiger's daily care and routine, provides answers to commonly asked questions about the mascot program, and discusses Mike's popular social media presence. He also delves into new traditions, such as the creation of "meat art" for Mike to devour before home football games and the overnight holding of graduation rings in the night house with Mike. In addition to Baker's own text, Mike: The Tigers of LSU includes remembrances from many of the tiger's veterinary student caretakers over the years, who reveal how caring for Mike the Tiger impacted their lives. Loaded with more than one hundred new and historical photos, Mike is sure to please the most avid fans of LSU's mascot.

Mike the Tiger has symbolized the spirit and resolve of Louisiana State University for over seventy-five years. Fiercely confident, keenly competitive, marvelously clever, and the only live tiger to reside on a college campus, Mike reigns nobly from his home just outside of Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge. In this completely updated and visually stunning new edition of Mike the Tiger, David G. Baker and W. Sheldon Bivin tell the story of the famed mascot from the Civil War origins of LSU's fighting tiger tradition to the present age of social media. They debunk the myths, confirm the legends, and share priceless behind-the-scenes anecdotes as they chronicle the reign of each of the six Mikes. Included are 70 additional photos, for a total of 200 images, as well as new details about:The construction of a spacious natural enclosure for Mike in 2005, complete with waterfall, stream, pool, shrubs, rocks, and grassThe final years of Mike V, who was hand-raised at LSU, and the outpouring of condolences upon his deathThe exciting arrival and introduction of Mike VI and the establishment of his reputation as possibly the most affectionate and inquisitive personality of any LSU tiger to dateThe naming of a sixth subspecies of tiger, the Malayan, and the current status of global tiger preservation effortsFrequently asked questions and answers about Mike's care and lifestyleMike the Tiger provides a treat for all who ever said, ""Meet me at the tiger cage,"" for all who still marvel at his regal appearance, and for all who will forever bleed purple and gold.

For the youngest fans of Louisiana State University sports, Mike the Tiger is the main attraction. Boys and girls visiting campus beg to stop by Mike's brand-new home situated near Tiger Stadium, Alex Box Stadium, and the Pete Maravich Assembly Center, hoping to hear the big cat roar and have their photo taken with him. Mike's veterinarian, David G. Baker, and reading specialist Margaret Taylor Stewart have combined their expertise in this fun, informative guidebook for the most devoted followers of the beloved Bengal mascot.With its question-and-answer format, this delightful book tells about Mike from whiskers to tail. Baker and Stewart offer lively responses to questions such as: Why does LSU have both a live tiger and a costumed mascot? What weighs as much as Mike the Tiger? Does Mike go to the dentist? What does Mike eat? They explore Mike's daily routine, playtime, health care, travel arrangements, and likes and dislikes.Readers can delve into the history of LSU's tiger tradition, meeting ""up close"" each of the five Mikes who have reigned since 1936. In More about Tigers, they can learn about Mike's place in the larger cat family, the various subspecies of tigers, their habitats around the world, and the tiger's distinct physical traits. Ten hands-on activities- including making a tiger face mask and cooking a delicious fudge-and-pecan treat shaped like Mike's paw print- will engage kids' creativity and skills. A special Notes to Parents and Teachers section offers suggestions for integrating the book into classroom studies.Lavishly illustrated with more than one hundred photographs capturing the many moods and adventures of Mike, Tales of Mike the Tiger will satisfy even the most inquisitive child on the subject of this favorite feline.