Waiting to see our newest and cutest clouded leopard cubs in person? Now's your chance! Guests can see the two cubs through a viewing window at the HCA Healthcare Veterinary Center neonatal animal care room.
After their mother Niran gave birth, the Zoo's veterinary team removed the cubs to hand rear. The veterinary staff often hand raise clouded leopard cubs due to the common nature of this species to neglect their offspring, which was the case with Niran. Hand rearing also lowers animal stress for future hands-on care.
These cubs, born on March 24, will be raised in the veterinary center until they are old enough to be paired with a future mate. This pairing is decided through the Clouded Leopard Species Survival Plan®.
Clouded leopards are listed as "vulnerable" and protected in most range countries although enforcement in many areas is weak. Precise data on clouded leopard population numbers in the wild is not known. The reduced number of pelts encountered at markets and reduced sightings of clouded leopards by people within its range suggest the species is in decline.
About Nashville Zoo
Nashville Zoo is a nonprofit organization and an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, assuring the highest standards of animal care and husbandry. The Zoo is actively engaged in conservation research, habitat protection, breeding programs and education initiatives around the globe as well as in our own backyard. The Zoo attracts more than 1,000,000 visitors annually and is considered one of the top attractions in Nashville. Nashville Zoo is located at 3777 Nolensville Pike and is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. For more information about Nashville Zoo, visit nashvillezoo.org.
Media Contact: Becky Hardy
Communications Specialist
bhardy@nashvillezoo.org
615-833-1534 x132