Mike: The Tigers of LSU

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.

David G. Baker was the primary veterinarian for Mike the Tiger from 1996 to 2022. He lives in Lincoln, Nebraska.