Chiang Mai‘s Night Safari in northern Thailand has become a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts, thanks to the rare golden Bengal tigresses, Ava and Luna. With their cream-colored coats, faint orange stripes, and wide, expressive eyes, the twin sisters have captured the hearts of visitors and internet audiences alike.
Born in captivity three years ago, Ava and Luna are among the few golden Bengal tigers found exclusively in breeding centers or zoos. Their unique pigmentation is the result of recessive genes, which give them thick, pale-golden fur and distinctive markings. These traits make them stand out even among the already majestic Bengal tiger species.
Making their debut in June, the tigresses quickly rose to fame after their appearances on the zoo’s social media channels. Since then, they have become the main attraction at the zoo’s 500-seat arena, where they perform tricks alongside their trainer, Patcharee Pipatwongchai. The shows, held four days a week, are consistently sold out as crowds gather to witness the tigresses’ intelligence and playful personalities.
“Seeing this tiger, I think it’s incredibly intelligent and capable of delivering surprising performances like this. I’m happy that Chiang Mai has such smart animals as a key attraction,” said visitor Wirunya Punyokit, expressing her admiration for Ava and Luna’s charm and abilities.
The Night Safari is not new to showcasing rare and extraordinary animals. The tigresses follow in the footsteps of other internet sensations, such as Moo Deng, a baby hippo who drew thousands of visitors to a zoo south of Bangkok.
Ava and Luna’s popularity underscores the growing fascination with unique wildlife and the role of zoos in conservation and public education. While these golden tigers are not found in the wild, their presence in zoos helps raise awareness about Bengal tiger conservation and the importance of protecting their habitats.
Visitors to Chiang Mai can experience these stunning creatures firsthand, marveling at their rare beauty and learning about the genetics behind their unique appearance. As Ava and Luna continue to delight audiences, they also serve as ambassadors for the natural world, inspiring admiration and a sense of responsibility toward preserving wildlife.
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