Knoxville, Tenn. (March 26, 2025) – Zoo Knoxville is thrilled to announce the arrival of Jango, a 10-year-old male Malayan tiger, from Dickerson Park Zoo. Jango is a significant addition to the zoo’s conservation efforts, as he is considered one of the most genetically valuable Malayan tigers in the world.
Jango is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP), a cooperative program designed to ensure the survival of threatened and endangered species through carefully managed breeding. With fewer than 200 Malayan tigers remaining in the wild, Jango’s genetics are crucial to maintaining a healthy and diverse population under human care.
Jango’s move to Zoo Knoxville is an important step in ongoing efforts to protect this critically endangered species. He has been settling into his new home and will eventually be introduced to Batari, the zoo’s female Malayan tiger, as part of a breeding recommendation from the SSP.
“We’re excited to welcome Jango to Zoo Knoxville and to play a role in the survival of his species,” said Bill Street, Zoo Knoxville’s President and CEO. “Pairing Jango with our female Batari is an important step in ensuring the future of Malayan tigers, and we hope their introduction will contribute to the preservation of this critically endangered species.”
Guests will be able to see Jango in the Tiger Forest habitat as he settles into his new surroundings. For more information on Zoo Knoxville’s commitment to wildlife conservation, visit zooknoxville.org.
About Zoo Knoxville
Zoo Knoxville is a nonprofit entity situated on 53 wooded acres just east of downtown Knoxville. Zoo Knoxville features exhibits of wild animals in natural habitats and is world renowned for its efforts in conservation and species survival. Zoo Knoxville is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is committed to the highest standards in animal care and well-being, ethics, conservation, and education. Knoxville’s largest attraction, the zoo is open every day except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Currently, the zoo is open daily from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Admission and ticket sales stop one-hour before the zoo closes. For more information visit zooknoxville.org.
