Dreamworld marks passing of 'cheeky' tiger Rama

Dreamworld has bid farewell to 19-year-old resident Bengal Tiger, best remembered for his “strong-willed” and “cheeky” ways.

Rama, who lived long past the average wild tiger life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, struggled with arthritis and kidney failure in recent months.

The tiger’s deteriorating health prompted a decision on the park’s behalf to bring Rama’s life to a humane end.

Born on Dreamworld’s Tiger Island on October 23, 1998, Rama was the last surviving member of a litter affectionately termed the “Awesome Pawsome”.

The eldest of 11 tigers living in the enclosure, Rama has been described by his carers as “strong-willed and sometimes cheeky”.

An estimated 3000 tigers are believed to remain in the wild, with the species classified as “Critically endangered”.

Dreamworld has raised more than $2 million in funds to support conservation and anti-poaching programs.