Zoo Knoxville Breeds Malayan Tigers for Conservation

The zoo contributes to the Malayan Tiger Species Survival Plan as the species faces threats from deforestation, poaching, and prey loss.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Zoo Knoxville is an active participant in the Malayan Tiger Species Survival Plan, serving as a breeding facility for the critically endangered species. The zoo also educates guests about tiger conservation efforts through its daily Asian Trek chats and annual World Tiger Day events.

Why it matters

Malayan tigers are critically endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and declining prey populations. Zoos like Knoxville play a vital role in conservation by maintaining healthy breeding populations and raising awareness about the threats facing this species.

The details

Zoo Knoxville is home to two Malayan tigers, Tahan and Batari, who were transferred to the zoo as part of the Species Survival Plan. Tahan, a 17-year-old male, has sired two litters of cubs at previous zoos and enjoys swimming and playing with enrichment objects. Batari, a 12-year-old female, is more assertive in her behavior and prefers to stalk and pounce on large toys rather than swim. Both tigers are important contributors to the conservation of their species.

  • Tahan arrived at Zoo Knoxville in December 2022.
  • Zoo Knoxville participates in World Tiger Day annually.

The players

Tahan

A 17-year-old male Malayan tiger who was born at the Cincinnati Botanical Gardens and has sired two litters of cubs at previous zoos before arriving at Zoo Knoxville in December 2022.

Batari

A 12-year-old female Malayan tiger who was born at Fresno Chaffee Zoo and transferred to Zoo Knoxville on a breeding recommendation from the Species Survival Plan.

Zoo Knoxville

A zoo located in Knoxville, Tennessee that is an active participant in the Malayan Tiger Species Survival Plan, serving as a breeding facility for the critically endangered species.

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The takeaway

By serving as a breeding facility for Malayan tigers and educating the public about conservation efforts, Zoo Knoxville is playing a vital role in protecting this critically endangered species from extinction.