Snow Leopard Cub Born at John Ball Zoo in Species Survival Effort

John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, Michigan, announced the birth of a snow leopard cub born on July 28, 2025, to mother Yuki. Both mother and cub are reported to be doing well and are currently kept behind the scenes to bond and grow stronger, with possible public viewing by late September depending on their progress. This birth is significant for the Snow Leopard Species Survival Plan, which aims to protect this vulnerable species, especially following the loss of Yuki's previous cub, Mera, in March 2025 due to health complications. The zoo has shared videos of Yuki grooming her cub and promises ongoing updates, although the new cub's name has yet to be announced. Meanwhile, the Fort Wayne Zoo also welcomed a male clouded leopard cub, highlighting ongoing efforts across zoos to conserve threatened big cat species through species survival plans and careful care protocols. These births underscore the vital role zoos play in the conservation and genetic diversity of vulnerable species.