Casanova

While not a Florida Panther,  we are pleased to announce the latest addition to the Cougar Ridge Family.  Say hello to Casanova, a Siberian Tiger and one of the most endangered species in the world.  

The Siberian Tiger is the largest of the great cats. They are found in northeastern China and Korea. The largest males can weight up to 800 lbs and be 10 feet in length from nose to tip of tail. The white tiger is not albino, but rather melanistic (recessive gene).  If he were albino he would have pink eyes and not colored stripes.

At the beginning of the 20th century there were 8 subspecies of tiger. Two of those are already extinct - the Bali and Caspian. The Siberian is considered the next most threatened.

Casanova was facing the possibility of not finding a home when the breeding center where he was born began the process of ceasing operations.  After spending 3 whole days with him there, Gloria Johnson called all of the tiger lovers she knew while in Casanova's cage and raised enough money to take him home and give him as happy a life just like her cougars!

Check out Casanova growing up and his visit to the stream at Cougar Ridge.

Check out Special and School Appearances to see Casanova when he visits the Florida Capital and schools in the Big Bend area.

This beautiful picture of Casanova was taken by Caroline Ferguson,  Florida Senate Photographer when Casanova and Gloria Johnson visited the Capital.

Photo 1: Casanova striking a pose.	Photo 2: Casanova enjoying a nap with his purple elephant.

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Page updated: 05/28/2006