Chattanooga Pulse

Which brings us to jaguars.

A few weeks ago, our “Street Scenes” photo was of the sole remaining jaguar at the Chattanooga Zoo.  We received a lot of comments and compliments over that photo – most along the lines of, “awwwwww, how beautiful!” – as well as some news from the Zoo folks themselves. Jaguars have been a part of the Chattanooga Zoo since the late 70’s, and have long been a favorite.  The existing jaguar exhibit that opened in 1996 was the first major effort toward redeveloping the entire zoo.

For 2009, a spectacular new jaguar experience is in the works featuring two very special cats from Argentina.  Argentine jaguars are perhaps the most critically endangered animals in South America with fewer than 300 remaining in the wild.  Chattanooga’s new jaguars are coming to us via two Argentine zoos where the cats currently reside and represent the first every jaguars in an accredited North American zoo… and a new potential for breeding.

An upgraded and expanded jaguar holding facility will enable the zoo to breed and care for three adults and several cubs at one time; which will allow the zoo to become a key participant in the important Jaguar Species Survival Plan.

However, building a new exhibit takes dedication, commitment, and strong financial support.  It is estimated that it will cost around $200,000 for build the new exhibit.  To that end, the Benwood Foundation has issued a challenge grant that will match, dollar for dollar all donations made to the zoo on behalf of the new jaguar exhibit.  Every dollar helps (and they have some nice recognition stuff for those that give $100 or more), so if you want to help out, call Leslie Davidson at (423) 421-1567.