Knoxville Zoo's newest big cat made her debut this week. Zarina, a two-year-old African lioness, is alternating days on exhibit with her future companion, Jimmy, the zoo's male African lion.

Zarina, who was born and raised at Virginia Zoo, comes to Knoxville on the recommendation of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which manages the placement and breeding of African lions in zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Zoo keepers are currently in the process of getting Jimmy and Zarina familiar with each other through "howdy" contact, which means they have the option to interact through a mesh barrier. As they become better acquainted, keepers will introduce them and they will share the same exhibit space.

"Jimmy's reached the age where it is appropriate for him to have a pride of his own, and we're excited to have Zarina as a companion for him," says Terry Cannon, curator of mammals.

Knoxville Zoo is Knoxville's largest year-round attraction. Located off exit 392A from Interstate 40, the zoo is open every day except Christmas Day. Knoxville Zoo is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is committed to the highest standards in animal care and well-being, ethics, conservation, and education. Currently, the zoo is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and from 9:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission and ticket sales stop one-hour before the zoo closes. Nextday admission is free after 3 p.m. For more information, please call 865-637-5331 ext. 300 or visit www.knoxvillezoo.org.