Stand just inches away from incredible Amur tigers at Knowsley’s Foot Safari

To Celebrate 2022 being the Year of the Tiger, we've been at Knowsley Safari to get up close with real Amur tigers.

Located on the Foot Safari, the Tiger Trail is the largest enclosure of its type in Europe, with uninterrupted views, where guests are literally inches from these big cats.

Endangered tigers

Bethany Hanson, Carnivore Keeper at Knowsley Safari, says: "We are part of the European breeding program so that works across loads of zoos to manage the genetics of the population. We get recommendations so Miron was recommended to us.

“There are just over 500 Amur tigers left in the wild they're currently at threat from habitat loss and loss of prey. So we need to make sure we maintain the genetic diversity in the captive population so that we can protect future generations of Amur tigers."

Year of the Tiger 2022

Amur tigers can grow to over three metres in length and are the epitome of bravery and strength, tiger traits which, according to the Chinese zodiac, people born during a tiger year are supposed to have.

Tiger years include 2022, 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974 and 1962.

People born during one of these years are said to be expressive and unpredictable with a stubborn streak. But, like a predator chasing its prey, the tiger does not falter, making quick decisions.

‘Fantastic charismatic species’

Bethany says: "They are such a fantastic charismatic species. They are so intelligent, the problem-solving that we see them do on a regular basis is just fantastic.

“Because they're so charismatic, it allows a lot of people to bond with them and get an emotional connection, allowing people to see the species' problems on a wider scale.

“When visitors come here and see our tigers it really allows them to engage with the conservation issues and get passionate about saving the species and their habitat."