Bramble Park Zoo will soon say goodbye to Ursula, its resident Amur tiger, as she relocates to another zoo. Due to her age, Ursula will not be returning to BPZ. This transition allows the Zoo to move forward with improvements that will benefit all the other carnivores in their care.
The Zoo was denied reaccreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) last year in part because several habitats needed upgrades, including the wolf and carnivore areas. Since then, Bramble Park Zoo has begun major improvements — the grey wolf habitat is under construction and expected to be completed next summer, and another project will modernize the black bear habitat. Because the tiger and bear areas are closely linked, Ursula’s move is necessary before those renovations can begin.
These upgrades are a critical part of BPZ’s Pathway Toward Membership with the AZA, which outlines a plan to meet full accreditation standards within the next five years.
“It’s always hard to say goodbye to animals we’ve loved and cared for,” said Zoo Superintendent Stacy Plocher. “We know this move is best for Ursula and the rest of our carnivores. Our goal every day is to provide the best possible well-being for our animals, and sometimes that means making tough decisions to improve their lives.”
Bramble Park Zoo is committed to creating safe, comfortable, and engaging spaces for its animals. These upgrades will help us care for them even better and strengthen the Zoo for the future.
“While the exact relocation date has not been finalized, Ursula will remain on exhibit until her move to give visitors time to see her and wish her well before her next adventure,” Plocher added.
The Zoo is open year-round from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For updates, follow Bramble Park Zoo on social media.