Oasis of the Siberian Tiger

The beginning of this project – the building of enclosures dates back to 1999. Many volunteers from the public and students have helped with the development. The mainstay of the operation is Yveta Iršová, whose love, devotion, kindness, patience and perseverance makes this 'oasis' possible.

The Oasis of the Siberian Tiger is not far from the town of Senec in a protected area of the countryside. It is about 3 km (1.88 mi) from the village of Kostolná pri Dunaji.

Under the protection of the 'Civic Association' there are 25 beautiful, healthy striped ussurian tigers (Panthera tigris attaica ); all breed in captivity and commonly called 'Siberian Tigers'. They are a protected species in CITES Category 1. All the tigers are micro chipped and DNA tested.

The main aim is to rescue at least one small population from extinction. Their descendents will hopefully contribute to the genetic pool for the world-wide breeding of rare and protected animals.

Today, the ever reducing taiga of the Russian-Chinese border area contains only a handful of these magnificent animals. The area, called the Amur region, has provided a declining quality of life coupled with a steadily increasing danger from poachers.

Several species of tigers are already extinct - the Baltic Tiger, the Caspian Tiger and Javan Tiger (last reported in 1976).

Here in Slovakia a protected sanctuary has been built; a 'heart of nature' for these beautiful animals where they can move freely in their enclosures (tiger gardens). They are happy, contented and do not suffer from physical or psychological problems. They are well fed and looked after. They enjoy the kind of environment they would experience in the wild with long grass, bushes, trees, plants and a swimming pool.

Opening hours:

Open every Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon to 5 pm; during summer holidays (July-August) open every day from 12 noon to 6 pm.

If you wish to visit at different time, please contact the Oasis via phone call in advance for an arrangement.