There is one Deni already making his mark in the United States with a basketball in his hands. Now another Deni is hoping to win hearts at Ramat Gan Safari.
A young Persian leopard that arrived in Israel from Sweden has been named after NBA star Deni Avdija and is expected to begin a gradual introduction to Noa, the female leopard named after Israeli pop star Noa Kirel.
Deni Avdija, the leopard, at Ramat Gan Safari
(Video: Ramat Gan Safari)
The two-year-old leopard arrived from Sweden’s Nordens Ark wildlife park following a lengthy coordination process between the two institutions. He is now settling into his new home at the safari, where staff hope he could eventually become Noa’s breeding partner.
Behind the celebrity names is a serious conservation goal. Deni and Noa were selected for the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria’s breeding program for Persian leopards, with the aim of eventually producing cubs and helping preserve the endangered subspecies.
Deni has already begun getting acquainted with his new surroundings and appears to be adapting well.
Shelly Eldad, head of the safari’s carnivore department, said the young leopard surprised his keepers with his relaxed temperament.
“We got from Ben Gurion Airport to the safari in 20 minutes, and shortly afterward he came out of his crate, calm, curious and interested,” Eldad said. “He probably picked up on our energy, and we picked up on his.”
She said Deni has so far proved especially easygoing.
“Some leopards can be aggressive, but he has a very chill personality. He adapted well to us, to his new home, a new language and new smells.”
The move to Israel, however, is only the first step. The next stage will be introducing him to Noa, though the pair will not meet immediately.
Deni Avdija
(Photo: AP Photo/Jenny Kane)
Deni will first become accustomed to her scent and presence nearby. Only later, depending on the behavior of both animals, will safari staff begin a gradual process of bringing them together.
Avdija himself was delighted to learn about his new namesake and said he plans to visit the safari to meet him.
“Not every day a leopard is named after you,” Avdija said. “It’s a great honor and a gesture that really moved me. Thank you to the safari, and I can’t wait to meet Deni the leopard.”
Safari officials hope that once the acclimatization process is complete, visitors will be able to see Deni in his outdoor enclosure.
The leopard is already accustomed to working with keepers and has undergone training to cooperate with veterinary procedures similar to those used at the safari. He is also comfortable around visitors.