Phoenix Zoo hosting grand opening to celebrate its new Big Cats of Arizona habitat

PHOENIX — The long-awaited Big Cats of Arizona exhibit is set to open to the public on Saturday.

The $5.3 million habitat, called Big Cats of Arizona: A Bridge to Arizona Wilderness, has been under construction since November 2023.

It’s notable because it will give the zoo’s two endangered jaguars, Caipora and Saban, more than twice as much space to roam. The two are part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which ensures the health of zoo animals.

Not only that, but the zoo’s mountain lion, Mystic, will also move into the exhibit to enjoy a space five times larger than her previous home.

Originally, she was going to be accompanied by her sister, Sierra. However, she moved alone because her sister Sierra died of renal failure prior to their relocation.

What’s unique about the Big Cats of Arizona exhibit at Phoenix Zoo?

The three big cats were relocated in the past two weeks and are thriving in their new home, according to a Thursday announcement from the Phoenix Zoo.

In addition to giving the three animals much more space to roam, it will also gives guests more opportunities to appreciate them than ever before.

That’s due to the zoo’s first “catwalk,” a long bar that sits within the exhibit that guests can walk through. It will give animal lovers the opportunity to stand directly below the big cats as they move overhead throughout the exhibit.

It’s one of the ways Phoenix Zoo officials wanted to boost visibility. The Big Cats of Arizona exhibit will feature multiple viewing angles and windows.

There will also be educational messaging throughout the exhibit to teach visitors about the species’ historical ranges. Another standout feature is the pool of water, which will enrich the cats’ environment and encourage natural behavior.

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