Two snow leopard cubs were recently born at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP) in Darjeeling, marking another success for the zoo’s Conservation Breeding Programme for the endangered species. The cubs, born to female Rare and male Namka, are currently housed in Togbey Danra, a dedicated off-display conservation center about 20 km from Darjeeling town.

The zoo, home to the world's largest captive population of snow leopards, boasts 11 adult leopards and now, two cubs. Since the programme’s inception in 1985, PNHZP has played a crucial role in snow leopard conservation, carefully selecting breeding pairs with diverse genetic backgrounds to avoid inbreeding. The zoo’s breeding center spans five hectares and mirrors the snow leopard's natural Himalayan habitat, offering large, naturalistic enclosures for breeding.

The cubs’ birth is a testament to the zoo’s careful breeding practices and its commitment to protecting this vulnerable species. With fewer than 7,500 snow leopards left globally, the zoo's successful breeding efforts have contributed to the species' preservation, with offspring sent to various other zoos in India.

The cubs are being closely monitored, and the zoo plans to involve the local government in naming them.