The Philadelphia Zoo has introduced two critically endangered big cats to its Big Cat Falls exhibit: 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’ Species Survival Plan (SSP), a program aimed at protecting vulnerable species through managed breeding initiatives across accredited zoos.
Rory comes to the Philadelphia Zoo from the Toledo Zoo, following a breeding recommendation with one of the Zoo’s male Amur tigers, either Wiz or Dimitri. Rafferty, who has previously sired offspring at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in New York, is slated to be paired with eleven-year-old female Kira. Zoo officials report that both animals are acclimating well to their new surroundings, with hopes that their introductions will lead to future cubs.
“Our role as an accredited facility is vital in protecting endangered species from extinction,” stated Rachel Metz, Vice President of Animal Wellbeing and Conservation. “We are thrilled to welcome these two magnificent big cats and can’t wait for our guests to meet them.”
Conservation Efforts for Amur Species
The SSP is crucial in preserving species like the Amur tiger and Amur leopard, which are native to the Amur River Valley in the Russian Far East. Amur tigers are listed as endangered, with fewer than 500 individuals remaining in the wild. The situation is even more dire for Amur leopards, classified as critically endangered, with an estimated wild population of fewer than 150.
Rory, born on July 20, 2021, weighs nearly 300 pounds and is considered fully grown, though zookeepers anticipate she will continue to develop as she ages. Known for her long whiskers and expressive ears, Rory enjoys playing with scent-covered toys and frozen enrichment treats. Rafferty, born on February 17, 2017, at Utah’s Hogle Zoo, has already made a strong impression with his striking two-toned eyes and calm demeanor. The Zoo staff are closely monitoring his eye health while preparing for his potential future as a sire alongside Kira.
“Our big cat team has already developed a fondness for both Rory and Rafferty,” said Jackie Stone, Assistant Director of Carnivores. “Rory is playful and loves her enrichment items, while Rafferty’s curiosity leads him to engage with his keepers during training sessions.”
History of Success in Big Cat Conservation
The Philadelphia Zoo has a proven track record of success 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 bred Amur leopards in the past, including two cubs born in 2000 and 2002.
Currently, the Zoo’s big cat roster includes four Amur tigers—Rory, Wiz, Dimitri, and eighteen-year-old Koosaka—and two Amur leopards—Rafferty and Kira. Additionally, the Zoo houses snow leopards Yuki and Marcy, African lions Makini and Tajiri, and puma siblings Elbroch and Olympia. These animals rotate through the habitats in Big Cat Falls and the Big Cat Crossing Zoo360 trail, providing visitors with diverse viewing experiences each day.
Guests are encouraged to check activation boards at Big Cat Falls for scheduled feedings and training sessions. While the arrival of cubs is not expected immediately, Zoo officials remain optimistic about the future. “We’re hopeful that we will welcome cubs in the coming years,” Metz added.
With its commitment to conservation and public education, the Philadelphia Zoo continues to serve as a sanctuary and a beacon of hope for some of the world’s most endangered big cats.