The Toronto Zoo has announced the birth of two snow leopard cubs, a significant event given the vulnerable status of this elusive species, commonly known as the “ghost cat.”
Credit: Toronto Zoo
On the evening of May 13th, three-year-old Jita, after a 97-day pregnancy, welcomed her first cubs into the world. The labour, captured by remote cameras, showed Jita displaying signs of impending birth, with the first cub arriving at 7:45 PM and the second early on May 14th.
Per the news release, the cubs’ father, Pemba, aged nine, contributes to the genetic diversity aimed at by the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a program ensuring a sustainable population of these rare animals across North American facilities accredited by the AZA. This plan not only helps maintain genetic health but also establishes these snow leopards as ambassadors for their species in the wild, fostering greater awareness and conservation efforts.
Currently, the cubs are not on display to the public; however, the Toronto Zoo will provide updates about when and how visitors can view them. In the meantime, the cubs are receiving diligent care from Jita, under the close watch of the zoo’s Wildlife Care team, which continues to monitor the family via CCTV to ensure their well-being without intrusion.
You can participate in conservation efforts through its Adopt an Animal program, supporting not just the snow leopards but various endangered species. These initiatives highlight the critical role of informed, engaged public support in wildlife conservation.