The Greenville Zoo is celebrating the birth of two endangered Amur leopard cubs, born May 17, 2026. First-time mother Irina and father Basha are caring for the healthy newborns.
Health and Care of the Cubs
Zoo officials report that the cubs are eating well and thriving under the care of their mother. The family is being monitored from a distance in a climate-controlled den to ensure minimal human disturbance.
Future Veterinary Care
“The cubs are with Irina in a climate-controlled den and will not be handled by humans until they are six weeks old,” said zoo director Bill Cooper. Around five weeks from now, veterinary staff will separate the cubs briefly to check their eyes and teeth and determine their genders.
Conservation Significance
Amur leopards are critically endangered, with fewer than 150 individuals remaining in the wild. The successful births represent an important step for species conservation. During her pregnancy, Irina was trained to voluntarily participate in ultrasound sessions, aiding keepers in monitoring her health.
