Dear friends,
We recently said goodbye to Zoya, the much-loved Amur leopard, who, at the remarkable age of 21, was among the oldest of her species in the world. Not only was she a cherished member of our Zoo family, she was also beloved by visitors from around the world. Many of you had a tradition of searching for her among the lush trees or seeing which of the tall rocks she was perched on during each visit.
In this time of thanksgiving, we reflect on Zoya’s extraordinary legacy with profound gratitude. We know she inspired countless people to develop a passion for wildlife and conservation, brought attention to a critically endangered species, and sparked joy in everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. We are deeply thankful for Zoya’s devoted care team, who provided her with exceptional care each and every day. Her longevity is a testament to their expertise and dedication. And, finally, we are grateful to you — our community — for sharing in Zoya’s journey and ensuring her legacy will endure.
Last week, we offered guests the opportunity to write a message to Zoya at her habitat.
As we celebrate Zoya’s life, we encourage you to enjoy the little things in life – as she did. Spend some time observing your natural surroundings. Be playful. Appreciate those special, tranquil moments throughout the day.
