Kind and charming leopard Amir dies at Chelyabinsk zoo
Leopard Amir, who lived almost 16 years at Chelyabinsk Zoo, died after a sudden deterioration in health. Staff remember his kind nature and charm.
Feb 18, 2026 0
The death of elderly leopard Amir has been a profound loss for the zoo.
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The leopard named Amir has died at Chelyabinsk Zoo. He was almost 16 years old and had been rapidly losing weight, which caused serious concern among veterinarians.
Amir was a playful and touching cub in the days after his birth.
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“The guy held on like a fighter. But therapy didn«t help — his gallbladder just »stopped«,” explained the zoo. “Amir was one of those animals that seemed an unshakable part of our zoo.”
His affection for people and mischievous acts defined Amir throughout his life.
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Amir was born and lived his entire life in Chelyabinsk. He was raised by staff since his mother, the leopardess Idritsa, rejected the cub immediately after birth.
Veterinarians used every possible treatment to assist Amir and the other carnivores.
From an early age, the leopard was known for his playful and charming character. “He grew up as a magical, pot-bellied baby made of fluff, whiskers, and semi-transparent claws. Amir carried his charm throughout his life, turning into a stately, beautiful cat, but remained the kindest and very human-oriented,” shared memories from the institution.
Amir had a chance for a career in the Filatov Circus, but the leopard staged a rebellion there and was returned to the zoo.
On February 4th, he would have turned 16. “So much, and yet so little at the same time. And it«s as if there»s nothing more to say, because it can«t be put into words,” admitted the staff.
Last week, the zoo had already expressed alarm over Amir«s condition and that of another predator — a tiger. Both animals began to lose weight sharply, being at a venerable age — 16 and 17 years old respectively. Amir is not the only aging pet at the institution.
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