Two Snow Leopard Cubs Born At Brookfield Zoo
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Brookfield Zoo visitors will have to wait more than a month to see the newest additions up close, but until then, the zoo is sharing some photos of the adorable snow leopard cubs who are sure to melt your heart.
The female cubs were born at Brookfield Zoo on June 16, but won't be ready for their outdoor habitat until mi-October, when they will make their public debut.
For now, they're spending time bonding with their 4-year-old mother, Sarani. Each cub weighs about 10 ponds.
Snow leopards are an endangered species, and experts estimate only 4,000 to 6,500 remain in the wild.
"Their numbers are declining due to human influence, such as poaching for medicinal markets and hides, depletion of their prey base, retribution killing following livestock losses, residential and commercial development, and civil unrest," the zoo said.
Sarani and her 5-year-old made, Sabu, have been at Brookfield Zoo since October 2011. Sarani came from Tautphaus Park Zoo in Idaho, and Sabu came from Cape May County Park & Zoo in New Jersey.