Excitement At John Ball Zoo As Baby Snow Leopard Joins Family

Guess what, animal lovers? John Ball Zoo just got a whole lot cuter! The zoo has introduced the latest addition to its family – a precious baby snow leopard. This little female cub made her grand entrance on June 6, thanks to her proud parents, Mylo and Yuki. Both mom and cub are doing fantastic and are spending lots of quality time together.

Jaime Racalla, the zoo's animal care supervisor, couldn’t be happier. “We’re so excited to welcome Yuki and Mylo’s cub, who is doing well and receiving attentive care behind the scenes at the zoo,” she said. “John Ball Zoo is proud to help contribute to the conservation of snow leopards through strategic breeding and excellent animal care.”

Courtesy of John Ball Zoo

Mylo and Yuki, the zoo's lovely snow leopard duo, are relatively new to the zoo as well. Mylo joined in 2021, and Yuki followed in 2023. They’re part of the Species Survival Plan Program, which helps ensure the future of their species.

Snow leopards, with their stunning coats and mesmerizing eyes, typically roam the high mountain ranges of central and south Asia. Unfortunately, they’re a threatened species due to poaching and climate change. This makes the new cub even more special as she represents hope for her species.

This little one isn’t the first snow leopard cub born at John Ball Zoo, but her arrival was extra special. Thanks to ultrasound technology, the zoo was able to track Yuki's pregnancy every step of the way. For now, Yuki and her adorable cub will stay behind the scenes, enjoying their cozy time together. But don’t worry, you'll be able to meet them soon enough.

Courtesy of the John Ball Zoo

And that’s not all- The zoo has been buzzing with new life lately. In addition to the snow leopard cub, three lynx kits and three penguin chicks have also joined the zoo family. It’s a baby boom at John Ball Zoo, and everyone is excited!

Stay tuned for more updates and cute photos of the newest zoo family members. They’re sure to steal hearts just as much as they have at the zoo.

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Gallery Credit: Wendy