Beloved Amur Leopard Zoya Passes at 21
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert is mourning the loss of Zoya, a beloved Amur leopard who captivated visitors for over a decade. Zoya, a remarkable 21 years old, peacefully passed away last Tuesday from natural causes related to old age.
"As we celebrate Zoya’s life, we encourage you to enjoy the little things in life — as she did," the zoo said in a statement. "Spend some time observing your natural surroundings. Be playful. Appreciate those special, tranquil moments throughout the day."
Her passing marks the end of an extraordinary life for a species facing immense challenges in the wild. Amur leopards, native to the Russian Far East and northern China, are critically endangered, with an estimated population of just 100 individuals remaining. This makes Zoya’s long life, exceeding both the average lifespan of her species in the wild (10-15 years) and in captivity (15-20 years), even more remarkable. She was one of the oldest leopards under human care in the United States.
Beyond her impressive longevity, Zoya was known for her spirited personality. Even in her later years, with decreasing kidney function, she remained "spry and athletic,” according to zoo officials. She loved her high vantage points, enjoying a bird’s eye view of the warthogs and zoo guests. Her mornings were often spent basking on her rock, overlooking the serene pond.
Zoya’s story highlights the plight of Amur leopards, who face threats from habitat loss, poaching, and dwindling prey populations. Organizations like the World Wildlife Fund are working tirelessly to protect these magnificent creatures through anti-poaching efforts, habitat conservation, and initiatives to increase the populations of their natural prey, such as deer and wild boar.
Zoos across the United States, including the San Diego Zoo, the Santa Barbara Zoo, and the Minnesota Zoo, are playing a vital role in the conservation efforts of Amur leopards. Last year, the San Diego Zoo welcomed two healthy leopard cubs, marking its third successful litter. Zoya’s legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of these conservation programs and the critical need to protect this extraordinary species for generations to come.
