The Phoenix Zoo has officially opened the Big Cats of Arizona habitat, a groundbreaking new exhibit that highlights two of the most iconic wild predators in the state: jaguars and mountain lions. This newly designed space offers an immersive experience for guests while promoting animal welfare and public awareness about native wildlife conservation.
A Wild Upgrade for Arizona’s Feline Predators
At the heart of this new habitat are two jaguars, Caipora and Saban, and Mystic, a mountain lion who now has five times more space to roam compared to her previous enclosure. The habitat replaces the zoo’s former jaguar and mountain lion exhibits with a significantly more naturalistic and engaging environment.
Caipora and Saban are part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a program that ensures the sustainability of threatened or endangered species in managed care. Meanwhile, Mystic, the mountain lion, appears to be adjusting well to her new home after the recent loss of her sister Sierra due to renal failure.
Designed for Exploration By Cats and Humans Alike
The Big Cats of Arizona habitat was built to prioritize both animal enrichment and visitor engagement. One of the standout features is the zoo’s first-ever catwalk, which allows the big cats to roam overhead while visitors walk beneath, a rare and exciting viewing opportunity.
Additional highlights include:
- Multiple glass viewing areas offering up-close encounters
- A new water feature for natural play and cooling
- Interpretive signage about historical big cat ranges in Arizona
- Shaded walkways and desert landscaping integrated with native flora
This modernized space mirrors the natural desert surroundings and mimics the cats’ real habitats in the wild, blending education with entertainment in a way that aligns with the zoo’s mission.
Funded by Community and Tourism Support
The creation of the Big Cats of Arizona habitat was made possible through a successful fundraising campaign that generated nearly $5.4 million. A notable contributor was the Arizona Office of Tourism, which provided a $768,000 grant through the Visit Arizona Initiative, aimed at bolstering statewide tourism and economic impact.
The rest of the funding came from generous donors who support wildlife education and conservation across the region.
Enriching the Arizona Trail Experience
The Big Cats of Arizona habitat is situated along the Zoo’s popular Arizona Trail, which features flora and fauna native to the state. This area of the zoo showcases coyotes, bobcats, Sonoran pronghorn, collared peccary, and the Mexican gray wolf, creating a cohesive, regional conservation story.
The new habitat now acts as a crown jewel within the trail, inviting visitors to explore the rich biodiversity of Arizona’s desert landscapes.
Education, Conservation, and Impact
Operated by the Arizona Center for Nature Conservation, the Phoenix Zoo is the only AZA-accredited zoo in the Valley and attracts more than 1.4 million visitors annually. With over 3,000 animals under its care—including many endangered species—the zoo plays a pivotal role in conservation efforts both locally and globally.
The Big Cats of Arizona habitat is a testament to the zoo’s commitment to educating the public and inspiring future generations to care for the natural world. Through storytelling, up-close experiences, and ongoing preservation programs, the Phoenix Zoo continues to lead as a conservation and tourism landmark in the Southwest.
