History and Goals
Tiger World was founded in 2007 when Lea Jaunakais had a dream to make a difference and participate globally in conservation and education of Endangered and Threatened animals. Tiger World purchased a closed down Zoo and opened to the public July 1, 2008. We began with just a few different species of cats and primates and have expanded to include over 54 various species including 14 Endangered Animals. We reach over 100,000 Visitors annually including over 30,000 School Kids. Teaching people about animals and spreading the love and appreciation is a passion of Tiger World.
Education – To provide a stimulating learning environment for generations to come. Education is the key to the development of our children. We feel that wildlife and nature sparks the imagination. Tiger World will not just exhibit animals but will also give the people an understanding of endangered wildlife with guided educational tours and a hands on approach to learning.
Conservation & Preservation – To promote awareness about the Endangered and Threatened Species of the world. Our wildlife numbers are decreasing at an alarming rate in their native habitats. In 1978 tigers were added to the Endangered Species List. Worldwide, tiger populations have dropped by almost 98% since the turn of the century when there were over 100,000 tigers in Asia. The demise of animal populations is due to man. One person can make a world of difference in the choices that they make for example: just by not buying certain products you could be conserving not just our animals but our ecosystem.
Protection & Safety – To maintain a safe secure preservation area for the public and for endangered and threatened wildlife. Unfortunately some reserves in other countries, such as Africa and India are not as safe as we hoped they would be. Poaching, Illegal Trade, Habitat Destruction, etc, are just some of the problems that are still occurring today. We have been asked several times “Why here in the United States do you have to house these cats”. Well it is here in the United States that the zoos and private facilities have provided assistance to responsible genetically diverse breeding programs that will help bring animals such as the tiger back from the brink of extinction. For this reason alone shows the necessity for a place like Tiger World.