Tigers: Can you spot one?
Mesmerizing and gorgeous, but also endangered, our tigers are always a pleasure to watch. Their exhibit was designed to closely resemble a natural jungle habitat and was built on a steep slope that gives the big cats plenty of exercise.
With a waterfall splashing into a pool and logs to climb on or use as scratching posts, the tigers have a variety of things to do. A heated cave near a viewing window encourages them to spend their naptime close to curious tiger admirers. Two more viewing opportunities almost guarantee you’ll see a tiger or two out and about.
A treat for various senses, fragrant jasmine vines and ginger were planted along the trail past the tiger exhibit to help you “smell” the rain forest. Use push buttons to listen to the different sounds a tiger makes. Dozens of water nozzles hidden among trees and plants along the path create a fine mist that blankets the tiger exhibit, lowering the temperature by 10 degrees and providing needed moisture for the tropical plants. The vapor is so fine that only five gallons (22 liters) of water a day are needed to create this humid atmosphere in San Diego’s dry climate!
As you leave the tigers, be sure to check out the “Rain Forest in your Cupboard” display, which shows products derived from rain forest plants—you’ll be surprised at how many of the items we use every day have rain forest origins.
