Smithsonian National Zoo: Big Cats (from June 16)

AFRICAN LIONS

The National Zoo is home to six African Lions, three males and three females.  Luke is the old man of the Pride.  This past winter, he had surgery on his back.  Now, he is usually left to enjoy the habitat on his own.  The lions share the tri-fercated space with the Tigers and from day to day different configurations of the animals appear in the three separated sections.

 The largest of the three habitats is always for the lion's use.  All three are surrounded with a moat. 

Beautiful Luke resting the dappled sunlight.

TIGERS SUMATRAN & AMUR

The next larger of the three habitats is always used for the Tigers.

For years the Smithsonian Zoo has been home to Sumatran Tigers.  In 2017, their female gave birth to a lone male cub.  The breeding couple lost interest.  The male was transferred and then the cub.  A new male was added, Pavel; however, he is not a Sumatran Tiger, but an Amur Tiger.  So currently, both adult tigers are displayed separately and not part of any breeding program.

TIGER TRACKS

Off to the outside of the habitats is a bamboo thicket originally designed to act as a barrier and sound break.  A boardwalk was placed within it that meanders from larger deck to larger deck where visitors can experience a wide range of interactive exhibits.