The Philadelphia Zoo has recently expanded its Big Cat Falls exhibit with the addition of two critically endangered big cats: Rory, a four-year-old female Amur tiger, and Rafferty, an eight-year-old male Amur leopard. Both animals arrived earlier this summer as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP), aimed at safeguarding vulnerable species through managed breeding across accredited zoos.
Rory made her way to the Philadelphia Zoo from the Toledo Zoo, following a breeding recommendation to pair her with one of the zoo’s male Amur tigers, either Wiz or Dimitri. Rafferty, who has prior breeding experience from the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in New York, is set to mate with Kira, an 11-year-old female Amur leopard. Zoo officials report that both animals are adjusting well to their new surroundings, and they are hopeful that these introductions will lead to future cubs.
Rachel Metz, Vice President of Animal Wellbeing and Conservation, emphasized the zoo’s commitment to conservation: “As a facility accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, one of our most important roles is to protect endangered species from extinction.” She expressed enthusiasm about welcoming the new big cats and the opportunity for guests to engage with them.
Conservation Efforts and Species Status
The SSP is crucial for preserving species like the Amur tiger and Amur leopard, both found in the Amur River Valley of the Russian Far East. Currently, Amur tigers are classified as endangered, with fewer than 500 remaining in the wild. In contrast, Amur leopards hold an even graver status, listed as critically endangered, with an estimated wild population of under 150.
Rory, born on July 20, 2021, weighs nearly 300 pounds and is considered fully grown, although keepers expect her to continue developing as she ages. She is recognized for her long whiskers and expressive ears, with a penchant for engaging with scent-covered toys and frozen treats. Rafferty, born on February 17, 2017, at Utah’s Hogle Zoo, has already captured attention with his distinctive two-toned eyes and calm demeanor. Zoo staff are closely monitoring his eye health while preparing for his potential role as a father with Kira.
Jackie Stone, Assistant Director of Carnivores, noted the strong bond that the staff has already formed with both animals: “Rory has very expressive ears and loves playing with enrichment items… Rafferty is a curious cat that enjoys interacting with his keepers during training sessions.”
Success in Big Cat Conservation
The Philadelphia Zoo has demonstrated a strong track record in big cat conservation. In 2017, the zoo welcomed Amur tiger cub Zoya, who has since produced two litters at Roosevelt Park Zoo in North Dakota. The zoo has also successfully bred Amur leopards in the past, with two cubs born in 2000 and 2002.
Currently, the zoo’s big cat roster features four Amur tigers, including Rory, Wiz, Dimitri, and Koosaka, who is 18 years old. The lineup also includes two Amur leopards, Rafferty and Kira, as well as snow leopards Yuki and Marcy, African lions Makini and Tajiri, and puma siblings Elbroch and Olympia. These animals rotate through habitats in Big Cat Falls and the Big Cat Crossing Zoo360 trail, providing visitors with varied viewing experiences daily.
While immediate cubs are not anticipated, zoo officials remain optimistic. “We’re keeping our fingers crossed that we will welcome cubs in the coming years,” said Metz. With a mission centered on conservation and public education, the Philadelphia Zoo continues to play a vital role in providing sanctuary and hope for some of the world’s most endangered big cats.
