Currently referred to as ‘baby,’ the cub’s naming rights will be handed over to supporters through a competition starting on May 25th and running until August 1st. This initiative not only involves the public in the cub’s journey but also serves as a fundraising effort for the charity.
Briony Smith, Curator at The Big Cat Sanctuary, expressed excitement about the cub’s development, noting that she was born with her eyes open and walking strongly by two weeks old. The cub’s quick growth and energetic behavior, typical for jaguars, make her a delight to watch.
As the cub tears around her enclosure, she keeps her mother, Keira, on her toes. The playful interactions between mother and cub highlight the bond between them, with bath time becoming a particularly lively event. Smith anticipates the joy of showcasing the cub to the public during the August Open Days, allowing visitors to witness her explorations and interactions.
This birth is part of the European Endangered Species Breeding Programme, contributing to the conservation of jaguars classified as ‘near-threatened’ in the wild. With constant threats from negative human impacts, sustaining a viable population in captivity is crucial for the species’ survival.
The arrival of this beautiful baby jaguar adds to the importance of supporting conservation efforts, reminding us of the need to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures for generations to come. Welcome to the world, little one!
