The Brookfield Zoo in Illinois is home to a captivating and rare resident – the white tiger named Whirl. As one of the few zoos in the United States that houses this magnificent feline, the Brookfield Zoo offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and grace of the white tiger up close.
The Story of Whirl
Whirl, an Amur tiger, was born at the Brookfield Zoo in May 2007. After spending some time at the Minnesota Zoo, Whirl returned to the Brookfield Zoo in 2013, where she has since become a beloved member of the zoo’s Big Cat Walkway exhibit. Visitors can often spot Whirl exploring her enrichment items, splashing in the pool, or simply resting in the sun.
Adopting Whirl
The Brookfield Zoo’s Animal Adoption program allows visitors to support Whirl’s continued care and well-being. The adoption packages range from $35 to $2,000, offering various benefits:
| Package | Cost |
|---|---|
| Friend | $35.00 |
| Caregiver | $60.00 |
| Partner | $100.00 |
| Advocate | $500.00 |
| Guardian | $1,000.00 |
| Champion | $2,000.00 |
By adopting Whirl, you can contribute to the zoo’s efforts to provide the best possible care and enrichment for this magnificent white tiger.
Visiting the Brookfield Zoo
If you’re planning a visit to the Brookfield Zoo to see Whirl, here are some key details to keep in mind:
Location and Hours
- Address: 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513
- Phone: 708-688-8000
- Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (April 1 – September 30), 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (October 1 – March 31)
Admission Rates
Admission rates to the Brookfield Zoo vary by age and residency. Be sure to check the zoo’s website for the most up-to-date information on ticket prices.
Unique Characteristics of the White Tiger
The white tiger, like Whirl, is a rare and captivating sight. These tigers are not albinos, but rather a genetic variation of the Bengal tiger. Their distinctive white coat and blue eyes are the result of a recessive gene that causes a reduction in pigmentation.
White tigers are not only visually striking, but they also possess unique behavioral and physical traits:
- Coloration: The white coat of the white tiger is caused by a recessive gene that reduces pigmentation, resulting in the iconic white fur and blue eyes.
- Hunting Adaptations: The white coat of the white tiger provides camouflage in snowy environments, making it easier for them to stalk and ambush their prey.
- Rarity: White tigers are extremely rare in the wild, with only a few hundred estimated to exist globally. The majority of white tigers are found in captivity.
- Conservation Efforts: While white tigers are not a separate species, their rarity has led to conservation efforts to protect and breed them in captivity.
Supporting the Brookfield Zoo’s Conservation Efforts
By visiting the Brookfield Zoo and supporting Whirl through the Animal Adoption program, you can contribute to the zoo’s ongoing efforts to educate the public about the importance of wildlife conservation.
The Brookfield Zoo is committed to providing the best possible care for Whirl and all of its animal residents. Your support helps the zoo maintain high standards of animal welfare, invest in habitat enrichment, and fund research and conservation initiatives.
Conclusion
The white tiger of the Brookfield Zoo, Whirl, is a true marvel of nature. Her presence at the zoo offers visitors a rare opportunity to witness the beauty and grace of this magnificent feline up close. By adopting Whirl or visiting the Brookfield Zoo, you can play a role in supporting the zoo’s conservation efforts and ensuring the continued well-being of this captivating white tiger.