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Story From
Leopard Forest
to fall in love with the zoo's NEW
By Stepfanie Romine for Nashville Zoo
The wait is over: Nashville Zoo’s Leopard Forest is now open – and it’s quickly becoming a must-see for visitors. Since the Forest features five species (including the return of giraffes), we’re sharing five fun facts about this much-anticipated exhibit, guaranteed to turn anyone into a (big) cat lover.
ONE
Amur leopards are some of the rarest big cats in the world.
Native to the far eastern parts of Russia and northeastern China, fewer than 150 Amur leopards remain in the wild today. These elusive cats—the star species in Leopard Forest—face threats from habitat loss, poaching and human conflict.
Compared with their African cousins, Amur leopards weigh about 30 pounds less. But despite their smaller size, these stealthy and powerful cats can take down prey that weighs up to 240 pounds! They prey on deer, boars and other small mammals.
At about 80 pounds, they’re small(er) but mighty hunters.
TWO
The new exhibit also includes elusive De Brazza’s monkeys, native to central Africa and known for their white beards; the agile and striking black-and-white Colobus monkeys from central and eastern Africa; nimble Klipspringer antelopes from eastern and southern Africa; At the end of the exhibit, you’ll see the Masai giraffes, who are finally back after their habitat got a glow-up.
They’ll have familiar friends in Leopard Forest.
THREE
With four immersive habitats, Leopard Forest features a unique overhead bridge, where the big cats travel above visitors as they make their way to the outdoor habitat. The leopard-viewing building is designed to resemble the nest of an African hamerkop waterbird, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape and offering an unforgettable experience.
You’ll have plenty of chances to spot the leopards.
FOUR
Amur leopards are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Nashville Zoo participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Amur Leopard Species Survival Plan to ensure the genetic biodiversity in the species’ captive populations. The Zoo is also continuing to protect a diverse array of species across Africa, including leopards.
The exhibit is part of the Zoo’s conservation efforts
FIVE
bonus tip
Don’t miss the art in Leopard Forest
Geometric steel sculptures created by artist Matt Hill bring a modern touch to the environment, and a serpentine donor wall, made of mosaic tiles by artist Rhoda Kahler, honors the generosity of those who made this project possible.
5 reasons
The adventure starts at Festival Field, and you’ll walk through four new immersive habitats, ending at the Masai giraffe exhibit. Learn more at nashvillezoo.org/leopard-forest
Want to visit Leopard Forest?
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