News Summary
Khan, an 11-year-old jaguar at the Birmingham Zoo, is set to move to the Brevard Zoo in Florida as part of a Species Survival Plan. This relocation aims to bolster breeding efforts for the dwindling jaguar population. After eight years in Birmingham, Khan will make way for renovations in his habitat, which will improve living conditions for future jaguars. The Birmingham Zoo emphasizes the importance of this initiative for the conservation of the species, while also preparing to welcome a new jaguar.
Birmingham, Alabama
Khan, an 11-year-old jaguar currently residing at the Birmingham Zoo, is set to relocate back to Florida as part of a Species Survival Plan. This transfer is aimed at expanding the jaguar population through breeding efforts. Khan will be moved to the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, Florida, where it is hoped he will contribute to the conservation of his species.
Khan has been a resident at the Birmingham Zoo for the past eight years, having originally arrived from Jacksonville Zoo in 2017. He was born in 2013 at Jacksonville Zoo and has a unique connection to the city through his name, which was inspired by Shad Khan, the owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars football team. Interestingly, both Khan the jaguar and Shad Khan share the same birthday.
This relocation is part of a broader initiative managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) intended to boost the captive jaguar population. The Birmingham Zoo stated that while the decision to relocate animals is challenging, it is a necessary step for the protection of jaguars as a species.
Upcoming Renovations at Birmingham Zoo
As Khan prepares for his transfer, the Birmingham Zoo is planning renovations to the current jaguar habitat in the Primate/South America Building. The renovations, designed to enhance the living conditions for jaguars, will include reactivating a waterfall feature. This upgrade is expected to take less than a month to complete.
Once the renovations are finalized, the Birmingham Zoo will welcome a new jaguar from another AZA-accredited zoo to take Khan’s place. This initiative aligns with the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare and conservation.
Understanding Jaguars
In the wild, jaguars typically have a lifespan of 12-15 years, but they can live for 20 years or longer in accredited zoological facilities. This species is currently classified as “Near Threatened,” with their population declining due to several factors, including habitat loss and illegal poaching. Demand for their skins, teeth, and claws continues to pose a significant threat to their survival.
Habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural development has led to an estimated 50% decrease in the jaguars’ historical range. Their numbers have dwindled in several areas, notably resulting in extinction in regions such as El Salvador and Uruguay.
The relocation of Khan the jaguar signifies an important effort not only for the Birmingham Zoo’s future exhibits but also for the species’ continued conservation. Through initiatives like the Species Survival Plan, zoos work collaboratively to ensure the future of jaguars and counteract the threats they face in the wild. The upcoming enhancements to the Birmingham Zoo’s facilities ultimately aim to create a more suitable environment for both current and future residents.
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Additional Resources
- Bham Now: 11-year-old Jaguar Khan Says Goodbye
- Wikipedia: Jaguar
- WVTM13: Birmingham Zoo’s Jaguar Moving to New Home
- Google Search: Birmingham Zoo Jaguar
- Bham Now: Birmingham Home Prices and Sales
- Google Scholar: Species Survival Plan Jaguar
- Village Living: Birmingham Zoo Celebrates 70 Years
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jaguar
- OTMJ: Zoo Rendezvous 2021
- Google News: Birmingham Zoo Renovations
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
