BATTLE CREEK, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Binder Park Zoo (BPZ) has announced that it will be introducing two snow leopards in the hopes of a successful breeding process.
Last August, BPZ welcomed a 2-year-old female snow leopard named Victoria, who was originally from Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.
Officials say that Victoria was received of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) under a Species Survival Program (SSP) breeding recommendation.
The recommendation pairs Victoria with the zoo’s male snow leopard, Raj, in order to produce cubs.
Zoo officials say that the pairing is made possible thanks to a change of law in March 2019. The Large Carnivore Act was amended to allow AZA accredited zoos the ability to breed large carnivores with a Michigan state permit.
As a result, BPZ is now approved to breed this species of carnivores.
“We are very grateful to everyone who worked on correcting the law,” president & CEO of Binder Park Zoo Diane Thompson said. “That effort allows the zoo to elevate its mission of conservation. When guests see snow leopards at the zoo, it’s a special experience that creates awareness and understanding that we can make a difference together – for snow leopards and other animals, too.”
Before the law amendment, the last snow leopard cub born at Binder Park Zoo was a female named Shanti, who was later transferred to Akron Zoo. She later produced eight cubs, including Raj, who was born in 2012 and transferred to BPZ in 2013.
Now, BPZ is working to introduce the two snow leopards.
“We are happy to be able to breed this vulnerable species again – really, it’s an honor, but introducing a new pair is not always an easy task. A lot of time and patience goes into this process,” Curator of Collection Kathryn Sippel said. “We’ve been carefully monitoring both animal’s behaviors and watching for cues from Victoria that she’s ready to meet Raj. Of course there are always risks, but with our experienced, well-trained staff, solid support from the SSP, and two snow leopards who hopefully like each other, we are crossing our fingers for a positive outcome.”
Binder Park Zoo will open for the 2020 season on April 16. More information about the zoo can be found at www.binderparkzoo.org.
