Ava, a three-year-old golden tigress from Thailand’s Chiang Mai Night Safari, is winning hearts across the globe. A photo of the rare and adorable tigress, shared on the zoo’s Facebook page on November 19, garnered thousands of likes, shares, and comments in just days.
Born on February 16, 2021, alongside her sister Luna, Ava’s internet debut comes shortly after Luna’s, and the duo is giving tough competition to baby pygmy hippo Moo Deng in the cuteness department.
A Rare Beauty
Golden tigers, like Ava, are an exceptionally rare variant of Bengal tigers, characterized by a recessive colour-changing gene. According to a South China Morning Post (SCMP) report, only 30 golden tigers exist in captivity globally, compared to 200 white tigers.
Ava and Luna’s parents were brought to Chiang Mai Night Safari in 2015 from the Czech Republic and South Africa, contributing to the conservation efforts of these majestic creatures.
Playful and Sociable
Contrary to the fearsome image of tigers, Ava is described as playful, sociable, and especially friendly toward children. Zoo officials note her charming demeanor, making her a star attraction at the park.
Social Media Stardom
Social media has been abuzz with admiration for Ava. Comments on her photos include, “Her face is so sweet,” and “She looks so clean, as if she takes 10 baths a day.” One user even declared, “First Moo Deng, now Ava? Thailand is winning the cutest animals award.”
Tourism Boost
The Nation Thailand reported that Ava’s popularity has doubled the number of visitors to the zoo, with fans eager to witness her charm in person.
Golden Tigress: A Symbol of Conservation
Ava’s viral fame shines a spotlight on the importance of conservation efforts for rare species like golden tigers. With her playful nature and captivating looks, she’s not just a sensation but also a symbol of hope for wildlife preservation.
