Utah's Hogle Zoo
Visit the Snow Leopard Cubs
Visit the Snow Leopard Cubs
Snow leopard cubs Pavlova and Bhutan are now visible to guests.
Snow in September! Guests can now visit the zoo’s two resident snow leopard cubs in Asian Highlands.
Meet Pavlova & Bhutan
The cubs, named Pavlova (female) and Bhutan (male) by generous donors Jason and Courtney Hawks Family and Greg and Heidi Miller, have been behind the scenes with mom Babs since their birth on June 4, 2024, to adapt to their new environment.
Behind the Scenes
This time behind the scenes was especially helpful for Babs, a very protective first-time mom, as it provided ample bonding time for the new family. Keepers also had time to slowly build Babs’ existing trust and training so she would feel comfortable while her cubs were away during their veterinary exams.
Veterinary Exams
These exams, conducted in July, August, and September, allowed our team to evaluate the cubs’ overall health.
- Zoo veterinarians assessed their body condition, recorded their weight, and administered necessary vaccinations.
- Ophthalmologists from MedVet performed detailed eye exams, a unique practice for snow leopards, who are especially prone to ocular issues.
- Both cubs’ eyes look great, and the cubs are in good overall health!
Early Training
Animal care teams also used this time to build relationships with the cubs and start early training that helps them learn to participate in their future care. Training includes tracking a target, moving to different areas, voluntarily getting on a scale, and safely taking food from their keeper team.
Pavlova (left) and Bhutan (right)
Pavlova
Bhutan
Next Steps: Ongoing Training & Care
The now 4-month-old cubs have begun exploring their outdoor habitat for the first time. Animal care teams at the zoo assessed their outdoor habitat and made necessary modifications so the cubs could safely explore and navigate the space. As they get acclimated to their new habitat, they will have access to indoor spaces and may choose to be inside. Check our social media or ask a team member during your visit for the best times to see them.
About Snow Leopards
Found throughout Asia, from the southern Himalayas westward through Pakistan and north to the Russian mountain ranges, snow leopards are known for their elusive and mostly solitary nature. With pale gray coats that act like natural camouflage, snow leopards have evolved to live in some of the most remote environments and are often referred to as the “ghost of the mountains.”
Conservation Threats to Snow Leopards
Threatened by habitat loss, declines in natural prey species, and illegal hunting, snow leopards are a vulnerable species. Every ticket and membership to Hogle Zoo supports our conservation initiatives in Utah and around the globe through our conservation partners, including Snow Leopard Trust. Snow Leopard Trust aims to better understand and protect snow leopards in partnership with the communities that share their habitat.
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Utah's Hogle Zoo
