Ramat Gan Safari Welcomes Persian Leopard Named After Deni Avdija
The Ramat Gan Safari welcomed a young Persian leopard named Deni, in honor of Israeli basketball star Deni Avdija. The feline joins other celebrity-named animals at the park.
The Ramat Gan Safari is expanding, welcoming a particularly glamorous new resident who is generating immense excitement among sports fans alike. The zoological park recently received a magnificent young Persian leopard who made the long journey to Israel from cool Sweden.
Following the tradition of naming new arrivals, the safari management decided to name him "Deni" as a tribute to Israel's most successful basketball player of all time, Deni Avdija. Safari spokesperson Hilla Feldman Grau explained the choice, noting that Avdija represents excellence, perseverance, and hard work.
A Romantic Future in the Safari
"We chose to name the leopard after Deni Avdija, hoping the new arrival will contribute to breeding programs and the conservation of this rare species," Feldman Grau said.
Indeed, Deni the leopard has a romantic mission ahead of him. He is slated to become the partner of Noa, a Persian leopard already living at the safari named after pop star Noa Kirel. Avdija himself was deeply moved by the tribute and promised to visit.
Famous Residents of the Safari
Deni is far from alone, joining an exclusive club of animals named after celebrities and public figures:
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Keren Peles: A rhinoceros named after the successful Israeli singer-songwriter, who previously visited the park.
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Rubi: A rhino named in honor of former Israeli President Reuven Rivlin.
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Rihanna: Bringing international glamour to the safari.
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Tupac: A rhino named after the legendary American rapper.
Meanwhile, as Avdija enjoys tributes at home, massive drama surrounds his professional future in the US. CBS Sports NBA expert Sam Quinn recently reported that the Portland Trail Blazers risk losing the Israeli star due to salary cap constraints when his contract concludes in the summer of 2028.
