The Phoenix Zoo’s New Big Cats Habitat: A $5.4 Million Investment in Wildlife and Tourism
The Phoenix Zoo has made headlines recently with the grand opening of its latest attraction: the Big Cats of Arizona exhibit, a significant investment costing $5.4 million. Located in the zoo's Arizona Trail section, this new habitat not only showcases two jaguars and a mountain lion but also aims to enhance the visitor experience and boost local tourism.
Financed partially by a $768,000 grant from the Arizona Office of Tourism, this project represents a collaboration aimed at supporting jobs in the travel sector while increasing tourism to the state. "A lot of folks have never seen mountain lions or jaguars because they’re so few and far between in the state of Arizona," remarked Linda Hardwick, the zoo's vice president of marketing. Her sentiments highlight the rarity and beauty of these magnificent species, making this exhibit a must-see for both residents and tourists.
The significance of this exhibit cannot be overstated. Jaguar and mountain lion sightings are exceptionally rare in the United States; Arizona is one of only three states with a jaguar population, according to the Environmental Literacy Council. The two jaguars, Caipora and Saban, now benefit from a habitat more than double the size of their previous enclosure. Additionally, the mountain lion named Mystic, an orphan found in South Dakota, now occupies a living space about five times larger than before.
Hardwick explained that this new habitat is more than just a bigger space; it includes a unique "cat walk" allowing visitors to observe these majestic animals up close, an experience that is both thrilling and educational. This innovative approach to exhibiting wildlife not only fosters a better understanding of these species but also serves to deepen the connection between the animals and the public.
The previous exhibit's space will pave the way for introducing two more species, the clouded leopard and an ocelot, further enriching the zoo's offerings. Art Pearce, a generous donor, emphasized the importance of such attractions in setting the Phoenix Zoo apart from others. He noted that while African lions and tigers are commonplace in many zoos, not all feature American jaguars and mountain lions, making this exhibit a unique draw.
According to the Arizona Office of Tourism, the state's appeal is growing, with over 45 million visitors contributing $29.3 billion to the economy last year alone. This influx of tourism supports jobs and generates substantial tax revenue, equating to nearly $900 in annual tax savings for Arizona households. The Phoenix Zoo, a nonprofit organization, ranks as the third most popular tourist destination in Arizona, following the Grand Canyon and Glen Canyon Recreational Area, with around 1.4 million visitors a year.
As such, the Big Cats of Arizona exhibit is poised not only to enrich the lives of its animal residents but also to enhance the zoo's role as a key player in Arizona's vibrant tourism landscape. Are you excited to visit the Phoenix Zoo and meet these stunning big cats? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
