TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – The Topeka Zoo is bringing home a critically endangered big cat as part of a coordinated breeding recommendation for the species.
According to the Topeka Zoo, it is welcoming Antin, a 4.5-year-old male Amur leopard, from the Toledo Zoo. Officials said Amur leopards are among the world’s rarest big cats and are classified as critically endangered. The species is native to the Russian Far East and northeastern China, and it has faced significant threats from habitat loss, poaching, and declining prey populations.
Topeka Zoo welcomes Antin the Amur leopard(Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center)
Officials said that the arrival of Antin represents a critical opportunity for the Topeka Zoo to contribute to the conservation and breeding of the species. Topeka Zoo officials add that his move is part of efforts among accredited zoos to maintain a healthy and genetically diverse population of Amur leopards under human care. A female could arrive here as early as next year.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Antin to the Topeka Zoo,” said Wrylie Guffey, director of animal care at the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center. “Amur leopards are an extraordinary species, and we know our guests will enjoy getting to know Antin and watching his personality emerge. His arrival also represents an exciting new chapter for the Zoo as we begin participating in a breeding program for this critically endangered species and contribute to the conservation of Amur leopards.”
Antin, which means “worthy of praise” in Ukrainian, was born Feb. 23, 2022, and will move into the former tiger habitat, which officials said features a new design to encourage natural behaviors such as climbing, exploring and resting at various elevations.
The Topeka Zoo says that Antin is an energetic and vocal leopard who enjoys exploring new scents and especially enjoys enrichment activities that involve shredding cardboard.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Evergy Green Team and KBS Constructors for helping us prepare Antin’s new home,” Guffey said. “These improvements will give him additional opportunities to explore his environment and express natural behaviors such as jumping and climbing.”
Officials said it will be several days before Antin is in his outside yard, so he can adjust to his new surroundings. Guests will be able to learn more about Antin and Amur leopards through new interpretive signage and educational experiences planned for his habitat.
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