The Indianapolis Zoo is expanding its family with the arrival of Ursula, an Amur tiger previously housed at the Bramble Park Zoo in Watertown, South Dakota. Presently secluded, Ursula undergoes a routine quarantine, an essential step before joining the exhibit. "We can't wait to see her make new connections with our guests here in Indy," said a zoo representative in what appears as a heartfelt welcome as reported by FOX59.
Known for her sociable demeanor in South Dakota, Ursula has earned a reputation as a "social butterfly," a term of endearment that likely reflects her amiable nature with zoo visitors. Heralding from the Bramble Park Zoo, her relocation is designed to enhance her well-being alongside that of the resident carnivore community. According to a civic alert posted by the city of Watertown and referenced by WTHR, Bramble Park Zoo Superintendent Stacy Plocher stated, “It’s always hard to say goodbye to animals we’ve loved and cared for. We know this move is best for Ursula and the rest of our carnivores."
Ursula's move comes against the backdrop of the May 2025 euthanization of Pavel, another Amur tiger from the Indianapolis Zoo. Pavel was an older cat, age 18, who suffered a clear decline in health before the decision for euthanasia was made. The arrival of Ursula is thus a positive stride for replenishing the Amur tiger presence at the zoo. The stark reality is that, as of this last May, the Amur tiger, formerly known as the Siberian tiger, numbers less than 500 in the wild. This fact underscores the significance of conservational efforts and the role zoos like Indianapolis play in animal conservation, as reported by WISHTV.
While eager locals and visitors alike might wish for a quick glimpse of Ursula, the Indianapolis Zoo urges patience, as such transitions take time. Once she clears quarantine and becomes acclimated to her new home, Ursula is expected to be a key part of the zoo's public engagement and educational outreach. The Indianapolis Zoo invites guests from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Sunday through November 21, after which they will be open from 2-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 2-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday through January 4, closing for only a handful of holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Day, as well as New Year's Eve, and Day, according to the same WTHR article.
