Evidence of long-term survival gains in Panthera from modern zoological facilities supports their role in integrated conservation

The accelerating global biodiversity crisis emphasizes the need for ex situ programs to complement in situ conservation. Modern zoological facilities, committed to conservation, education, and research, have significantly evolved, yet public and political scrutiny persists, particularly regarding Panthera species. Here, we evaluated long-term trends in survival-related metrics in all five extant Panthera species born in zoos from 1874 to 2022. Using data from 41,244 individuals, we applied Bayesian survival models to estimate life expectancy, lifespan equality, and first-year survival across six historical periods by species and sex. All three metrics increased significantly through time (life expectancy: +0.89 ± 0.43 years per decade; lifespan equality: +0.114 ± 0.006 per decade, first-year survival: +0.023 ± 0.003 per decade). Individuals born in the most recent decade lived nearly five years longer on average (a 1.7-fold increase) than those born in the early 20th century, with more individuals reaching older ages. Jaguars showed the highest values, and a sex difference was observed only in lions. Moreover, life expectancy and lifespan equality were strongly correlated, confirming progressive improvement in management, husbandry and veterinary care standards in modern facilities. Finally, zoo-born lions now surpass their wild counterparts in life expectancy and lifespan equality. These findings demonstrate that modern facilities sustain longer and more equitable lifespan in Panthera , strengthening their demographic stability and genetic value. Enhanced conditions of life and longevity reinforce the contribution of ex situ populations to species recovery, supporting the integrated One Plan Approach for Panthera conservation. • Long-term survival gains in five Panthera species under ex situ care since 1874. • Zoo-born lions surpass wild lions in both life expectancy and lifespan equality. • Results support ex situ populations for biodiversity conservation strategies. • Findings counter claims of poor Panthera conditions in accredited zoos.