AssetID: 55105697
Headline: UNCAPTIONED: Adorable Amur Leopard Kittens Practice Their First Pounces
Caption: Two Amur leopard cubs took their first steps and practiced their pouncing with mum in their own private habitat at Brookfield Zoo in Chicago. The cubs, born to mother Mina (pronounced MEE-nuh), belong to the world's rarest big cat species, marking what the zoo described as an important milestone in its conservation work. They recently underwent their first wellness examination, which included weighing and vaccinations. Unlike their African cousins, Amur leopards are adapted to cold climates, making snowy conditions ideal for their first steps outdoors.
Keywords: Natural World,Amur leopard cubs,Brookfield Zoo,Chicago,first steps,pouncing practice,mother Mina,rare big cat species,conservation milestone,wellness examination,weighing,vaccinations,Dr Copper Aitken-Palmer,senior veterinarian,virus protection,parasite protection,eight-week exam,public debut,snowy conditions,cold climate adaptation,animal care staff,wildlife conservation,endangered species,big cats,zoo animals,animal welfare,veterinary care,species protection,rare mammals,wildlife breeding,habitat adaptation,cub development,zoo exhibits,public engagement,animal health,exotic animals,nature preservation,educational programs,wildlife observation,snow-adapted species,outdoor enclosures
PersonInImage: