The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP) in Darjeeling recently welcomed the birth of two snow leopard cubs, bringing the zoo’s total number of snow leopards to 13 — one of the largest captive populations of the species globally.
The cubs, born to a female named Rare and a male named Namka about a month ago, are currently being raised at Togbey Danra, an off-display conservation facility located around 20 km from Darjeeling town. The zoo already houses 11 adult snow leopards — seven females and four males.
PNHZP Director Basavaj S. Holeyachi confirmed that both cubs are healthy and under close care. Birbaha Hansda, West Bengal’s Forest Minister, noted that they may request Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to name the cubs.
The births are another achievement for the zoo’s long-running Conservation Breeding Programme for snow leopards, which began in 1985, with the first successful cub born in 1987. Since being designated the national coordinating zoo for snow leopards in 2007, PNHZP has played a crucial role in maintaining genetic diversity to prevent disease caused by inbreeding.
Officials explained that snow leopards housed at the zoo have come from various Indian states and international zoos, ensuring a broad genetic mix. Togbey Danra, spread across five hectares, replicates the animals’ natural high-altitude environment with five specially designed enclosures covering a total of 1,000 square metres. The enclosures mimic the snow leopards’ natural habitat with constant CCTV monitoring.
When a female snow leopard is confirmed pregnant, she is separated for special care, including regular health checks and body weight tracking. Both mother and cubs are closely observed following birth to ensure their wellbeing.
