We are heartbroken to share that our beloved clouded leopard cub passed away suddenly on April 4 due to intestinal bleeding.
This cub represented a proud achievement for us and a hopeful future for her species,” said Nashville President and CEO Rick Schwartz. “She captured the hearts of millions of people, and we are absolutely devastated.
The cub was born on February 25 and quickly gained national media attention and popularity. Shortly after her birth, the Zoo announced a naming contest raising thousands for clouded leopard conservation efforts. On April 3, the cub developed acute hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE), a bleeding into the GI tract. The Zoo’s veterinary team reacted immediately and worked continuously to try and alleviate the issue which unfortunately was unsuccessful. The exact cause of HGE has yet to be determined.
Rest in peace, little one. You will be deeply missed, but your impact on clouded leopard conservation will live on.
Clouded leopards (Neofelis nebulosa) are native to the tropical lowlands of Southeast Asia in countries such as Nepal and Bangladesh. They are considered vulnerable to extinction according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to deforestation, poaching and pet trade. Precise data on clouded leopard population numbers is not known, but researchers estimate there are around 10,000 clouded leopards in the wild. Specific populations can be difficult to track, as the clouded leopard is among the rarest of the world’s cat species and one of the most elusive. The reduced number of pelts encountered at illegal markets and reduced sightings of clouded leopards by people within its range suggest the species is in decline.
As part of Nashville Zoo's conservation efforts, the Zoo is part of the Clouded Leopard Species Survival Plan ®. Nashville Zoo helps protect this species through collaborative breeding programs, assisted reproduction, advanced veterinary care and captive husbandry techniques, becoming a leader in clouded leopard conservation.