SALT LAKE CITY – On Christmas day, Utah’s Hogle Zoo welcomed two Amur leopard cubs. The cubs made their public debut Friday morning.

Amur Leopards are a critically endangered species due to habitat loss and poaching. Typically found in East Russia and North China, there are less than 100 of these rare subspecies still roaming around in the wild. Their endangered status means that every Amur leopard birth makes a difference.

The cubs’ mother, Zeya, and father, Dmitri, came to the Hogle Zoo on a breeding program in 2015 and 2013. Zeya from Ashford, England and Dmitri from Apple Valley, Minnesota. 

The cubs will stay with their mother for a year or two before becoming independent. This is the fourth successful litter from parents Zeya and Dmitri.

“We are excited to introduce these special cubs to the public. These cubs have proven to be more independent than other cubs we have had in the past,” Melanie Kuse, Asian Highlands animal care supervisor said. “They started walking and eating meat sooner than some of our other cubs, and Zeya continues to be an attentive and excellent mother.”

The cubs will be visible to guests in the Asian Highlands exhibit. Viewing hours are up for revision considering their new schedule and comprehensive natal care.

Video courtesy of Meghan Thackrey/KSL TV

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