A Fresh Home for Lion Tamarins at Kyiv Zoo
Kyiv Zoo has opened a brand-new enclosure for its lion tamarins, located in a visitor-accessible area. This development marks a key milestone in the animals' socialization process, part of broader efforts to enhance their well-being in captivity. The troop of these lively, mischievous primates has grown and adapted so well that zoo staff created this new space to support their continued social development and environmental enrichment.
The new lion tamarin enclosure features:
- custom wooden structures;
- climbing frames;
- ladders;
- ropes;
- a feeding table;
- a small water fountain.
Additionally, the enclosure includes a monkey house with a viewing window, allowing visitors to observe the daily lives of these fascinating creatures. Lion tamarins weigh up to 900 grams, measure about 30 cm in body length, and have tails around 45 cm long. They naturally inhabit the tropical forests of eastern Brazil, feeding mainly on insects, but also consuming small snakes, lizards, and fruit.
Amur Leopard Cub Born at the Zoo
In other zoo news, staff announced the birth of an Amur leopard cub. Named Hera, the cub was born in August 2025 to parents Salma and Hercules. With only about one hundred Amur leopards remaining in the wild, this birth highlights the zoo's critical role in species conservation.
The zoo also shared a photo of Stepan, a lynx who has gained weight over the winter. These updates reflect Kyiv Zoo's active efforts to improve animal care and attract visitors. Zoo entry is available until 5:00 PM, with grounds open until 6:30 PM. Ticket office hours are:
- Monday: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM;
- Tuesday through Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The creation of this new lion tamarin space is part of a larger initiative to upgrade living conditions for animals in captivity. Such changes not only boost animal welfare but also draw in visitors eager to see these creatures thrive. Meanwhile, the birth of the Amur leopard cub underscores the zoo's importance in preserving rare species, a mission that is increasingly vital in the context of global conservation efforts.