The twin clouded leopard cubs born on Leap Day are growing by leaps and bounds at Lowry Park Zoo.
- Twin clouded leopard cubs born on Feb. 29
- Cubs to be introduced to main leopard habitat this week
- Clouded leopards are considered vulnerable due to loss of habitat, poaching
The 2-month-old cubs named Aiya and Shigu were born on Feb. 29. The cubs are set to be introduced to the main clouded leopard habitat at the zoo to help keep them safe while they practice their new motor skills.
Aiya and Shigu are the first set of multiples for Lowry Park Zoo's pair of adult leopards. Zoo officials said the mother became anxious and stopped caring for them, so the zoo's animal care team intervened.
Officials say that within the managed population, the clouded leopard cubs are routinely hand-reared so they have the best chance of survival. It also improves socialization for early introductions to potential mates and reduces aggression between pairs.
For their safety the cubs will alternate exhibit time with the zoo's adult leopards but they will not be reintroduced.
Clouded leopards, which are the smallest of the big cats, weigh between 60 and 80 pounds in adulthood and are about five feet long, including their tails. The leopards are found in forests and rainforests and are known as shy and reclusive.
Clouded leopards are considered vulnerable due to deforestation rates, primarily due to the expansion of palm oil plantations, hunting and poaching.
All photos courtesy of Lowry Park Zoo:
