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Species Survival Plans (SSP) are in place to create a genetically diverse population of animals to
protect them from extinction in the wild. With over 500 plans, each overseen by expert advisors,
zoos and aquariums, accredited by AZA, collectively work together to create a stable population of
many species to ensure a long-term future; and this little clouded leopard cub happens to be the
newest hope for this vulnerable species.
Due to the critically low number of clouded leopards, each cub is essential to the population’s future
success, and therefore, every precaution is taken to ensure their survival. In many species, fi rst time
moms, and even experienced moms, will occasionally neglect or reject an infant and can even have
trouble producing enough milk to support their o spring; therefore, this cub will be safely hand-

reared behind the scenes.
Decades of research has revealed that hand-rearing leads to better breeding success, increased
births, and early socialization for this species. Our vet team is working around the clock to help this
cub grow, including feeding Raja every three hours, watching his behaviors, and even witnessing
him begin to practice crawling.
In the coming year, while Raja concentrates on growing safely, groups of individuals around the
country are working together to grow the Clouded Leopard SSP.

Thank you to Lutheran Children’s Hospital for supporting all of our
Zoo babies and The LaSalle Family for helping to fund our work with
the Clouded Leopard SSP.

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