This adorable Amur leopard cub has delighted zoo keepers – as its one of the world’s most critically-endangered species of big cat.
The new arrival is currently being cared for by mum Kaia before it makes it public debut at the end of August at Marwell Zoo in Hampshire.
It is a month old and keepers have yet to give the little bundle of fur a name and announce what sex it is.
The rare leopard is an important addition to the European Endangered species breeding programme.
As few as 19 Amur leopards are thought to remain in the wild and the tiny population is at serious risk of extinction.
John Pullen, Marwell Wildlife’s Curator of Mammals said: “The birth of an Amur leopard is fantastic news and we are all very excited by this arrival.
“Marwell’s keepers and veterinary team are monitoring Kaia and her cub and both appear to be in good condition and healthy.
“We are keeping disruption to a minimum and allowing mum and cub some space to bond in the privacy of their den.
“We are all looking forward to watching this youngster grow, develop and explore its new home at Marwell.”
Tim Woodfine, Marwell Wildlife’s Director of Conservation added: “This cub is an important addition to a successful breeding programme which has future plans for Amur leopard re-introductions into the wild.
“This birth is a great outcome for the hard work which takes place at Marwell.”
The leopards inhabit the Amur River basin – a mountainous region of north-eastern China – where they have been hunted to the brink of extinction by poachers who sell their skins and body parts for traditional
