New Persian Leopard Arrives at Ramat Gan Safari, Named After Danny Avdiya

A young Persian leopard named Astrof has arrived at the Ramat Gan Safari in Israel from Nordens Ark Zoo in Sweden. Upon his arrival, he was given the Israeli name Deni, in honor of Israeli basketball star Danny Avdiya. Deni, born on June 20, 2024, joins Noa, the safari's resident female Persian leopard, as part of a European breeding program aimed at conserving the critically endangered subspecies.

Deni's transfer was the result of extensive coordination between the Ramat Gan Safari and the Swedish zoo. His former caretakers describe him as calm and curious, with a fondness for rabbits. Initial observations at the safari suggest these descriptions are accurate. Deni is accustomed to human presence and has undergone training for veterinary procedures, as well as exposure to visitors, with the hope that he will soon be easily visible in his enclosure.

Hila Feldman Gra, spokesperson for the safari, explained the naming choice: "We chose to name the new Persian leopard after Danny Avdiya, who in our eyes represents excellence, values, perseverance, hard work, and success." She highlighted Avdiya's achievements, including being the first Israeli to be selected for the NBA All-Star game, as embodying the dedication and belief in one's path that the safari also strives for in its conservation efforts.

Danny Avdiya expressed his excitement about the honor and pledged to visit the safari. "It's not every day a leopard is named after you. It's a great honor and a gesture that truly moved me. Thank you to the safari, and I look forward to meeting Deni the leopard," he stated.

Deni's arrival is crucial for the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP). He is intended as a mate for Noa, with the goal of producing cubs to help bolster the dwindling population. Initially, Deni will remain in a separate indoor facility to acclimate to his new surroundings before gradually being introduced to his outdoor habitat. The process of introducing him to Noa will be gradual, starting with scent and presence before any direct contact, depending on their behavior.

The Persian leopard is a top predator vital for ecological balance, regulating populations of other animals and preying on weaker individuals. However, the subspecies is critically endangered, with estimates of only 750-1,044 individuals remaining in the wild, occupying a fraction of their historical range. The species faces a declining population trend.