Tiger World, located in Rockwell, North Carolina, is a unique nonprofit wildlife preserve making waves in animal conservation. This extraordinary facility, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and preservation of exotic animals, offers visitors an intimate and educational experience unlike any other. Founded in 2007 by Lea Jaunakais, Tiger World opened its doors to the public in 2008, quickly becoming a beacon of hope for endangered species.
With its mission firmly rooted in conservation through education, this USDA-approved facility provides a stimulating environment for both animals and visitors alike. As you step into Tiger World, you're not just entering a zoo; you're immersing yourself in a world where the roars of big cats and the calls of exotic birds create a symphony of wildlife, inviting you to explore and learn about the magnificent creatures that call this place home.
Highlights
- Home to over 110 animals from 54 different species
- Offers up-close encounters with rare animals like white lions and ligers
- Provides educational guided tours and self-guided walkabout options
Contents
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/TigerWorldNC
Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Tiger World Rockwell is worth visiting with kids because it offers unparalleled hands-on learning about exotic animals. Children aged 5-15 will be particularly captivated by seeing tigers, lions, and other big cats up close in their natural behaviors. The facility's interactive educational programs spark curiosity and foster a deep appreciation for wildlife conservation. Kids can observe animals running, playing, and interacting with their handlers, creating memorable experiences beyond what they might see in books or screens.
Family-friendly features
- WILD Adventure Golf: Safari-themed mini-golf course
- Free-roaming peacocks for an immersive experience
- Picnic areas for family lunches
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/TigerWorldNC
The Animals of Tiger World
Tiger World boasts an impressive array of animals from five different continents:
- Big Cats:
- Tigers (Bengal, White Bengal, Siberian, Indochinese)
- Lions (African, Barbary, Timbavati White)
- Jaguars (including a rare Black Jaguar)
- Leopards (African, Black)
- Other Exotic Animals:
- Bears (Syrian Brown Bear)
- Wolves (Arctic, Timber)
- Primates (Ring-tailed Lemur, White-handed Gibbon, Olive Baboon)
- Endangered Species:
- Ligers and Ti-Ligers
- Galapagos Tortoise
- White Lions
The facility is committed to conservation efforts for these endangered species, providing a haven and participating in breeding programs to help preserve these magnificent creatures for future generations.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/TigerWorldNC
Visitor Experiences
Tiger World offers a rich tapestry of experiences for animal enthusiasts and curious visitors. From guided tours to self-paced explorations, the preserve caters to various preferences, ensuring an unforgettable encounter with exotic wildlife.
Guided Educational Tours
At the heart of Tiger World's offerings are the guided educational tours led by licensed animal handlers who bring knowledge and passion to each excursion. These tours provide an intimate look into the lives of the preserve's residents, offering in-depth information and personal, hands-on experiences that leave lasting impressions. Visitors can expect to learn fascinating facts about each animal's behavior, diet, and conservation status while observing them in their carefully designed habitats.
Self-Guided Walkabout Options
For those who prefer to set their own pace, self-guided walkabout options allow visitors to meander through the facility at leisure. Informative signs dot the pathways, providing fascinating details about each animal and their habitats. This self-directed approach lets families and individuals tailor their visits to their interests and schedules, creating a personalized adventure through the world of exotic animals.
Xtreme Play Concord is 25 km from the zoo. Visit it with the whole family as well.
Up-Close Animal Encounters
The crown jewels of Tiger World's offerings are the up-close animal encounters. The Carnivore Feeding Safari Tour gives visitors a thrilling glimpse into the feeding habits of big cats and other predators. For a gentler experience, educational animal encounters, such as meeting "Nacho" the Sloth, provide an opportunity to interact with some of the preserve's friendlier residents. These experiences foster a deeper connection between humans and animals, promoting understanding and compassion for wildlife.
Throughout all these experiences, visitors have the unique opportunity to observe animals in settings that mimic their natural habitats. Watching these magnificent creatures eat, sleep, play, and interact with their dedicated handlers offers insights into their behaviors and personalities that can't be replicated in books or documentaries. This intimate, real-world exposure makes this zoo truly special and educational.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/TigerWorldNC
Conservation and Education Initiatives
Tiger World's commitment to conservation and education is evident in its various programs:
- Rescue and Rehabilitation:
- Provides a home for animals from closed zoos or confiscated from the exotic pet trade
- Offers expert care to rehabilitate animals in need
- Educational Programs:
- Hosts over 30,000 school-aged children annually
- Offers field trips and special educational tours
- Provides a stimulating learning environment for all ages
- Wildlife Preservation Importance:
- Raises awareness about endangered species
- Educates visitors on the impact of human activities on wildlife
- Encourages conservation efforts through personal connections with animals
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/TigerWorldNC
Special Attractions
Tiger World boasts several unique attractions that set it apart from typical wildlife preserves. Visitors can experience extraordinary encounters with rare and fascinating creatures.
Michael the White Lion
One of the most captivating residents is a majestic white lion. As one of only 500 white lions in captivity worldwide, Michael represents a rare genetic variation in South Africa's Timbavati region. This impressive big cat, weighing approximately 650 pounds, draws visitors with his striking appearance and regal demeanor. Michael's presence not only offers a unique visual experience but also serves as a powerful ambassador for lion conservation efforts.
Ligers and Other Unique Species
Tiger World is home to some of nature's most intriguing genetic marvels, including ligers - the offspring of male lions and female tigers. These impressive hybrids showcase the fascinating possibilities within the big cat family. Beyond ligers, the preserve houses other rare species, such as the elusive New Guinea Singing Dog. These uncommon animals allow visitors to observe and learn about creatures they might never encounter elsewhere, broadening their understanding of the world's biodiversity.
Natural Habitats and Animal Behaviors
At this place, the commitment to animal welfare is evident in the expansive enclosures that closely mimic the natural environments of their inhabitants. These thoughtfully designed spaces allow visitors to observe authentic animal behaviors, from young cubs' playful antics to adult big cats' majestic prowling. The preserve goes beyond mere observation, incorporating enrichment activities that mentally and physically stimulate the animals. This approach ensures the animals' well-being and provides visitors with a more authentic and educational wildlife experience, showcasing the importance of proper habitat and care in conservation efforts.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/TigerWorldNC
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tiger World with children is during weekdays, preferably in the morning when animals are most active. Weekends can be busier but offer special events like carnivore feedings on Thursdays. The facility is open year-round from 9 AM to 5 PM, closed only on Wednesdays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
Recommended Duration: A typical visit lasts about 2-3 hours, allowing ample time to explore all exhibits and participate in a guided tour.
Our Recap
Tiger World offers families a unique blend of education, conservation, and entertainment. With its diverse array of exotic animals, interactive experiences, and commitment to wildlife preservation, it provides an unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages. The intimate setting allows up-close encounters with rare and endangered species, fostering a deep appreciation for wildlife conservation.
