Alyona the Amur Tiger celebrates 18th birthday at Blackpool Zoo

Alyona the Amur tiger at Blackpool Zoo is celebrating her 18th birthday today, marking a significant milestone for the endangered Amur tiger species.

In the wild, Amur tigers typically live up to around 15 years, making Alyona's longevity a testament to the high standard of care provided by the dedicated animal care team at the zoo.

Staff say her milestone birthday reflects years of expert husbandry, specialist diets and carefully managed enrichment designed to support both her physical health and natural behaviours.

Amur tigers, also known as Siberian tigers, are listed as endangered in the wild with habitat loss and poaching remaining major threats to their survival.

The team at Blackpool Zoo continue to play an important role in conservation and breeding programmes aimed at safeguarding the future of the species in accredited zoological collections across the world.

Visitors have been invited to join in celebrating Alyona's special day and learn more about Amur tiger conservation efforts during their visit to the park.

Keepers say Alyona remains active, healthy, and an ambassador for her endangered species today continues.