Topeka Zoo to Welcome Critically Endangered Amur Leopard from Toledo Zoo
A new spotted face is coming to the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center. The Zoo is welcoming Antin, a 4.5-year-old male Amur leopard, from the Toledo Zoo as part of a coordinated breeding recommendation for the species.
Amur leopards are among the world’s rarest big cats and are classified as Critically Endangered. Native to the Russian Far East and northeastern China, the species has faced significant threats from habitat loss, poaching and declining prey populations.
Antin’s arrival represents an important opportunity for the Topeka Zoo to contribute to the conservation and breeding of this remarkable species. 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 features a newly refreshed design to encourage natural behaviors such as climbing, exploring and resting at various elevations. The habitat improvements include a new climbing structure created with help from the Evergy Green Team, along with other renovations completed by KBS Constructors and Zoo staff. Visitors will quickly discover 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.”It will be several days before Antin is in his outside yard, so he can become more comfortable with 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.
About Amur Leopards
The Amur leopard is a subspecies of leopard found in a small region of the Russian Far East and northeastern China. Known for its beautiful spotted coat, incredible climbing ability and adaptability to cold climates, the Amur leopard is one of the rarest big cats in the world.
Conservation programs at zoos and wildlife organizations play an important role in maintaining a healthy population under human care while supporting broader efforts to protect wildlife and habitats in the wild.
