Amur (Siberian) tigers are the largest of the tiger subspecies, with specific cold-climate adaptations and enormous spatial needs. Zoos play an important role in ex-situ conservation, but ensuring adequate welfare requires specialised facilities.
Amur tigers in zoos face the challenge shared by all large solitary felids: the fundamental mismatch between their natural ranging behaviour and any feasible captive enclosure. Well-managed facilities provide large spaces with complex terrain, pools, climbing structures, and naturalistic substrate. Feeding enrichment simulating prey pursuit — carcass feeding, puzzle feeders, scent trails — extends active engagement time and reduces inactivity. The cold-weather adaptation of Amur tigers means they are often more active in lower temperatures, and outdoor access year-round is important for their welfare. Institutions with appropriate space and enrichment programmes report lower levels of stereotypic behaviour and healthier animals with longer lifespans.