A Walk on the Wild Side:
Wander through this naturalistic haven, encountering endangered big cats like majestic snow leopards, elusive Amur leopards, powerful pumas, awe-inspiring lions, striped Amur tigers, and stealthy jaguars. Big Cat Falls provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness these incredible creatures up close and personal, fostering a deeper appreciation for their beauty and challenges in the wild.
Enrichment and Exploration:
At Big Cat Falls, the cats’ well-being is paramount. A unique feature of the exhibit allows particular cats to explore neighboring habitats, providing essential behavioral enrichment and simulating the natural roaming behaviors of wild felines. The exhibit also incorporates “hot rocks,” heated areas within the artificial rockwork, ensuring the comfort of these majestic creatures even during colder months.
Zoo360: A Unique Perspective:
The innovative Zoo360 system of overhead tunnels enhances the cats’ experience and offers visitors a thrilling vantage point. You might even glimpse an Amur leopard gracefully traversing the tunnels high above, observing the world below with curious eyes.
Big Cat Falls is a testament to the Philadelphia Zoo’s dedication to conservation and education. By showcasing these magnificent creatures in a habitat that reflects their natural environment, the zoo inspires visitors to advocate for wildlife and their preservation. Embark on an unforgettable journey through Big Cat Falls and discover the captivating world of these awe-inspiring big cats.
About the Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo, located in the Centennial District of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on the Schuylkill River’s west bank, was the United States’ first zoo. Chartered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on March 21, 1859, its opening was delayed by the American Civil War until July 1, 1874. It opened with 1,000 animals and an admission price of 25 cents. For a brief time, the zoo also housed animals brought over from safari on behalf of the Smithsonian Institution, which had not yet built the National Zoo in the 1850s.
The Philadelphia Zoo is one of the premier zoos in the world for breeding animals that have been found difficult to breed in captivity. The zoo also works with many groups worldwide to protect the animals’ natural habitats in their care…