The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs is home to a remarkable species of tiger – the Amur tiger. These critically endangered felines, with only around 500 individuals remaining in the wild, are a captivating attraction for visitors to the zoo. Recently, the zoo welcomed a new addition to its tiger family, Mila, a 2-year-old Amur tiger who arrived from the Toronto Zoo in March 2023. Tragically, Mila’s life was cut short in August 2023 due to a “freak accident” during a routine procedure, leaving the zoo community deeply saddened.
The Amur Tiger: A Critically Endangered Species
The Amur tiger, also known as the Siberian tiger, is a subspecies of the tiger that is found primarily in the Russian Far East and northeastern China. These magnificent creatures are the largest of the tiger subspecies, with males weighing up to 700 pounds and measuring up to 10 feet in length. Despite their impressive size, Amur tigers are classified as a critically endangered species, with their population in the wild dwindling due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
Mila’s Arrival and Tragic Passing
Mila, the 2-year-old Amur tiger, arrived at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in March 2023 from the Toronto Zoo. She was a part of a future breeding recommendation, as the zoo aimed to contribute to the conservation efforts for this endangered species. Mila quickly captured the hearts of the zoo staff and visitors with her feisty and intelligent personality, and she was making great progress in her training and settling into her new environment.
Tragically, Mila’s life was cut short in August 2023 due to a “freak accident” that occurred during a routine procedure. After receiving voluntary injection training and undergoing surgery for a severe dental issue, Mila slipped off a bench less than a minute after lying down, causing a fatal spinal injury. The loss of Mila is deeply mourned by the zoo community, including her past caretakers at the Toronto Zoo.
Amur Tiger Encounters at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers a unique opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with the Amur tigers through their Animal Encounters program. The Amur Tiger Encounter allows visitors to meet the keeper(s), take photos, and observe the tiger interact with enrichment items. However, it is important to note that all encounters are conducted in a protected contact situation, and touching the animal is typically not permitted.
The Amur Tiger Encounter costs $475 for up to four people and includes admission to the zoo for the day. $3 from the cost of the encounter is donated directly to Quarters for Conservation, a conservation program supported by the zoo.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Conservation Efforts
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is committed to the conservation of the Amur tiger and other endangered species. Through their Quarters for Conservation program, the zoo donates a portion of the proceeds from various experiences, including the Amur Tiger Encounter, to support conservation efforts around the world.
In addition to the Amur Tiger Encounter, the zoo also offers other opportunities for visitors to learn about and support the conservation of these magnificent animals. Visitors can attend educational presentations, participate in conservation-themed events, and even adopt an Amur tiger to support the zoo’s ongoing efforts.
Visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and is open year-round, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Visitors can explore the zoo’s various exhibits, including the Amur tiger habitat, and participate in a variety of educational and interactive experiences.
To plan your visit, you can check the zoo’s website for current hours, admission prices, and upcoming events. The Amur Tiger Encounter can be booked in advance, and it’s recommended to do so as spots are limited.
Conclusion
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Amur tigers are a captivating and important part of the zoo’s collection. While the tragic loss of Mila is deeply felt, the zoo’s commitment to the conservation of this critically endangered species remains steadfast. Visitors to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo have the opportunity to learn about and support the Amur tiger through various experiences, including the Amur Tiger Encounter. By visiting the zoo and participating in these programs, you can play a role in the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve this magnificent species.