Critically Endangered Amur Leopard Gives Birth To Three Cubs In Yorkshire

The Amur leopard is one of the most endangered species of big cat in the world. So when word got out that a female had given birth to three cubs in a Yorkshire zoo, conservationists were thrilled. Parents Freya and Drake producing three cubs is huge cause for celebration because there are less than 80 critically endangered Amur leopards in the wild.

Cubs being protected

After being born in Yorkshire Wildlife Park in June, handlers have carefully protected the cubs from the general public. In fact the park has just released photos and CCTV footage of the cubs with their mummy in advance of vaccinations which will take place shortly. It is hoped that the birth of the cubs will herald greater efforts to reintroduce the species into their native Eastern Russian habitat.

“It is very exciting that in the next two to three years, we could be involved in working with the international conservation community in reintroducing Amur Leopards back into their native Russia,” YWP Animal Collection Manager Simon Marsh said in a statement.

Hunted to near extinction

News of the arrivals comes at a time when new evidence suggest that the big cat’s numbers in the wild may be reviving following intense conservation efforts in Siberia. Amur leopards are also known as Russian Far Leopards and have a lifespan ranging from between 15 to 20 years. They have evolved to become extremely well adapted for survival in conditions which are freezing. Their numbers have fallen to near extinction due to intense poaching because such a high value is placed on their fur. Another reason for the decline is because their prey has also been hunted leading to diminished sources of food.