Save Our Stripes: Leah Wood’s Roaring Tribute to the Amur Tiger Unveiled at Woburn Safari Park

It’s not every day you come face to face with a tiger’s gaze — captured in layers of paint, passion and purpose. But this summer, at Woburn Safari Park, that’s exactly what you’ll find.

In honour of National Tiger Day (29th July), British artist and environmental advocate Leah Wood has unveiled her latest creation: a powerful mixed-media portrait of Minerva — one of Woburn’s very own Amur tigers. And while it’s stunning, it’s also something else entirely. It’s a call to action. A roar on canvas.

Meet Vera — Muse, Tiger, and Symbol of Hope

Minerva (affectionately known as Vera by the keepers who know her best) is no ordinary tiger. She’s one half of a remarkable duo — sharing her 300-acre home at Woburn with fellow Amur tiger Dmitri — and she plays a critical role in the global conservation breeding programme for one of the world’s most endangered big cats.

Her portrait, now on display for all to see, is a bold, heartfelt tribute by Leah — an artist known not just for her talent, but for her fierce environmental spirit. Using oils, acrylics, chalk, glue and even cling film, Leah’s art reflects the very issues she fights for: biodiversity, sustainability, and protecting what’s left of our natural world.

“If we can make people aware of the dangers wildlife is facing, we can inspire real action,” she says. “Art has the power to move hearts and help save these incredible animals.”

Unveiled Friday. Celebrated All Weekend.

The painting was officially revealed at Woburn Safari Park on Friday, kicking off a weekend-long Save Our Stripes charity celebration (26–27 July) that gave visitors a chance to get up close with the Park’s resident tigers, speak to expert keepers, and book once-in-a-lifetime Mini VIP tiger experiences.

It wasn’t just about seeing the stripes — it was about saving them. Every donation made during the weekend supports the Wildcats Conservation Alliance, funding frontline efforts like anti-poaching patrols, health monitoring, and habitat protection across the Amur tiger’s dwindling range.

Why the Urgency?

Because the numbers are terrifying. A century ago, there were over 100,000 wild tigers. Today, there are fewer than 3,000. And the Amur tiger — the largest of all tiger subspecies — now roams just 7% of its original habitat.

Woburn Safari Park, opened in 1970 by the 13th Duke of Bedford, has been part of the solution for decades. It’s one of the UK’s oldest wild animal parks, home to over 1,000 animals spread across stunning parkland. Beyond the Amur tigers, the Road Safari is home to rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, African lions and black bears — while the Foot Safari offers up-close views of red pandas, sea lions, meerkats and more.

And Woburn’s conservation work goes way back — more than 100 years, in fact — with proud memberships in both BIAZA and EAZA.

A Brushstroke for the Future

Leah Wood’s artistic journey has taken her from Chelsea College of Art to global exhibitions, and her work — inspired by the natural world and her two young children — now finds homes with collectors around the world. She’s painted for the Mandarin Oriental, exhibited everywhere from the Garrison Chapel to Linley Gallery, and collaborated with sustainable fashion brands and ocean charities.

But this tiger portrait? It’s different. It’s personal.

Because, as Leah puts it, “These animals need us. And we need them more than we realise.”

So, What Can You Do?

Visit Woburn Safari Park. Stand before Vera’s portrait and feel the power of her gaze. Learn her story. Say hi to Dmitri. And — if you can — donate. Because saving tigers isn’t just about money. It’s about momentum. It’s about awareness. It’s about showing up.

Before the stripes fade forever.

Find out more and plan your visit at: www.woburnsafari.co.uk
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