21-year-old Amur leopard Zoya passes away in California zoo

In Southern California, a 21-year-old Amur leopard named Zoya died due to old age at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert. Zoya's death was announced by zoo officials, stating that she had spent over a decade at the facility. Notably, her age exceeded the typical life expectancy for Amur leopards, which ranges from 10 to 15 years in the wild and 15 to 20 years in captivity. Her advanced age positioned her as one of the oldest leopards in human care across the United States. The Amur leopard is classified as critically endangered, with a population that has fluctuated significantly over the past several decades. By the 1970s, fewer than 30 individuals remained in the wild, raising alarms about their preservation. Since being classified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature in 1996, various conservation efforts have been implemented to ensure their survival. Current estimates suggest that the existing population is around 100, indicating a fragile but important rebound for this species. Zoya's life at the zoo was characterized by her spry demeanor, even in her final days, as officials noted her continued athleticism and enjoyment of her surroundings. Despite experiencing decreased kidney function, she was often observed enjoying the higher vantage points in her habitat, watching over the warthogs and zoo visitors. The zoo took this opportunity to reflect not only on her life but also to encourage the public to appreciate the little things in life, as Zoya did. Efforts to protect Amur leopards include curtailing illegal poaching, safeguarding their natural habitats, and fostering the growth of prey populations, including deer and wild boar. Conservation organizations like the World Wildlife Fund have been involved in these efforts, aiming to improve the prospects for Amur leopards and enhance awareness about the broader challenges faced by critically endangered species.