Nashville, TN – Sip Saam and Natida, the Zoo’s clouded leopard cubs born in March, are making public appearances every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:30am – 11:30am.
“It’s been several years since we have exhibited clouded leopard cubs, so I know the public is anxious to see them,” said Karen Rice, carnivore supervisor at Nashville Zoo. “At nearly four months old, Sip Saam and Natida enjoy exploring the habitat, climbing trees and chasing one another around.”
The cubs can be seen at the lynx habitat, which is temporarily closed due to construction on the new Andean bear exhibit.
Nashville Zoo is a leader in clouded leopard conservation and breeding. In addition to Sip Sam and Natida’s births, the Zoo has welcomed two more cubs in 2015. Born June 29th, the two females named Giaao and Juup are doing well and are being hand-raised by Zoo staff.
Due to the cat’s reclusive disposition, introducing clouded leopards to potential mates has been difficult, as male clouded leopards have been known to attack and kill potential female partners. To reduce these fatal attacks, the Zoo hand-raises cubs and introduces them to mates at a young age. Since 2009, 24 clouded leopards have been raised by the Zoo’s animal care team and have gone on to zoos worldwide
Clouded leopards are considered vulnerable to extinction due to deforestation, poaching and the pet trade. As a founding member of the Thailand Clouded Leopard Consortium, Nashville Zoo works with organizations around the world to improve husbandry, breeding and genetic diversity for this dynamic species.
About the Nashville Zoo
Nashville Zoo is accredited by the prestigious Association of Zoos and Aquariums, assuring the highest standards of animal care and husbandry. Attracting more than 830,000 visitors annually, the Zoo is considered one of the top things to do in Nashville. The Zoo is a non-profit organization located at 3777 Nolensville Pike and is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
The mission of Nashville Zoo is to inspire a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation and leadership.
For more information about Nashville Zoo, call 615-833-1534 or visit www.nashvillezoo.org.
