The big cat house has been replaced by a new state-of-the-art facility, Big Cat Habitat. It has increased indoor space and a larger off-show management area will be complimented by extended external paddocks and improved keeper facilities, which will enable the best possible care for the magnificent and endangered animals. It is nearing completion and will officially open on Friday 26th May 2023.
We are delighted to welcome 3 new lionesses Hira, Emma and Narla. They arrived mid-May from West Midland Safari Park and have been settling in really well. Hira, who will be four in September, along with Emma and Narla, who are both 18, were all born at West Midlands Safari Park and have close bonds with each other. Keepers describe Emma and Narla as quite strong individuals, whilst Hira is more of a gentle soul who looks to them for leadership.
Khari, the male lion born in Blackpool Zoo in 2015, has already shown a lot of interest in the new arrivals through viewing windows and they will be gradually introduced to form the new pride.
Please note that as the lionesses are still in their settling-in period, there is no guarantee that you will see them.
Alyona, the female Amur tiger, arrived back mid-May and will spend some time settling into and exploring her new home, so you may not always be able to see her.
She will be joined by a male tiger to form a companion pair later in the summer.