Aztec came to us in 2004 from a circus environment.  Prior to arriving at Panther Ridge, he lived together along with Zeus (another old jaguar) and a leopard, in a 10’ x 20’ cement-floored cage without platforms, toys or enrichment.  Aztec and Zeus were very weak when they arrived – Zeus could barely walk up an incline. 

Zeus required many supplements (Adequan, Cosequin) to strengthen his weak hips and joints, which were a consequence of having walked solely on concrete.

Initially, both cats paced incessantly from boredom.  While they continued to pace out of habit, over time they relaxed more and more. After 4 years at Panther Ridge, they were very much at home - running, playing and jumping.  What joy to witness their transformation, both in terms of physical changes and more importantly, their awakening of spirit!

In 2006, we completed construction on a swimming pool and waterfall inside the jaguars' enclosure.  It was such a pleasure to witness them enjoy water for the first time.  They splashed and played for hours.  Zeus especially loved the water and would enthusiastically bob for fish in the pool.  They spent much of their summers in the pool, leaving the water only at dinner time.

Zeus survived until July, 2008. See our special tribute to this magnificent creature.

Aztec grew very lonely after that, but we rocked his world with the arrival of Tia - a female jaguar who came to Panther Ridge by way of a zoo in North Carolina in 2009. Tia was declawed as a young cat, and has some discomfort in one of her paws, but she gets around fine. It took some doing, but they formed a close bond... and in September, 2009 baby Isabella was born.

See video footage and learn more about jaguars
See video of "Zeus Goes Fishing"