Chiang Mai's golden tigers draw huge crowds

Two rare golden tigers have become the stars of the Chiang Mai Night Safari, captivating visitors with their striking appearance and playful performances. The duo, known for their kitten-like features, have drawn large crowds, boosting ticket sales and becoming a social media sensation.

Ava and Luna, two rare three-year-old golden tigers, have become the stars of the Chiang Mai Night Safari, drawing crowds with their striking golden coats and kitten-like charm. Born in captivity, the twin sisters, who debuted at the zoo in June, are part of the critically endangered Golden Tabby tiger breed, a rare color variation of the Bengal tiger.

“These tigers can only be found in breeding centers or zoos around the world. They no longer exist in the wild,” said Patcharee Pipatwongchai, a tiger trainer at the zoo. Their rarity, combined with their sweet and tame demeanor, has made Ava and Luna a social media sensation, with fans flocking to see them in person.

The golden tigers’ performances in the "Tiger Show" have become a major attraction, with the 500-seat stadium consistently selling out. Visitors are mesmerized by their agility and precision as they perform tricks, such as walking through tubes and between their trainer’s legs. 

The Golden Tabby tigers, sometimes referred to as "strawberry tigers", are a result of recessive genes that produce lighter fur and faint orange stripes. With the golden tiger population critically low, Ava and Luna are among the few remaining in the world, cared for in controlled environments like zoos to ensure their survival.

The sisters’ popularity has given a significant boost to ticket sales at the zoo, with audiences of all ages coming to watch their performances. "It’s incredible to see how intelligent these tigers are," said a local visitor. “Chiang Mai is lucky to have such smart animals as a key attraction."

As Ava and Luna continue to steal hearts, they represent not only the beauty of nature but also the importance of preserving endangered species in the face of growing environmental challenges.

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