The Philadelphia Zoo has announced the release of a new children’s book titled A Family for Zoya: The True Story of an Endangered Cub. This nonfiction book illuminates the remarkable survival journey of an Amur tiger cub named Zoya, who benefited from the dedicated efforts of zoo professionals and conservation partners. Zoya was born in July 2017 but faced a challenging start as the only survivor of her litter, having been rejected by her mother, Koosaka.
After her rejection, the zoo’s animal care and veterinary teams provided round-the-clock support to ensure Zoya’s survival. They arranged for her transfer to Oklahoma City Zoo, where she was introduced to Lola, a Sumatran tiger that had recently given birth to three cubs. In a significant moment of hope, Lola accepted Zoya, allowing her to nurse and grow alongside her foster siblings.
Book Highlights Courage and Conservation
Authored by Debra Kim Wolf, the book captures Zoya’s extraordinary story, emphasizing themes of courage, connection, and the vital role of conservation. Wolf is committed to the cause, donating 100% of her proceeds to the Tiger Conservation Campaign. “Zoya’s journey reminds us that small acts of kindness, for animals or people, can make a big difference,” Wolf stated.
Zoo officials have expressed that Zoya’s survival is a testament to the collaborative efforts of institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. “Zoya’s story in particular shows how humans can work together to save wildlife,” said Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman, President and CEO of Philadelphia Zoo. Senior veterinary technician Jenna Heinze, who played a key role in Zoya’s care, described the experience as “living proof that humans can work together to save and protect animals.”
Public Event and Future Prospects
Following her successful fostering, Zoya was relocated in 2019 to Roosevelt Park Zoo in North Dakota, where she became part of a breeding program. She has since given birth to two litters of cubs, with the latest born in May 2025.
To celebrate the book’s release, Philadelphia Zoo will host a public event on August 27, 2023, at 11 a.m.. The event will feature a book signing, a meet-and-greet with the author, and a tiger feeding session. Admission to the event is included with a regular zoo ticket. The book will be available for purchase at zoo gift shops, online, and during the event.
Currently, the zoo is home to four Amur tigers: females Koosaka and Rory, and male brothers Wiz and Dimitri, all of whom can be viewed at the Big Cat Falls exhibit.
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