Balek

A young male snow leopard (Panthera uncia) named Balek stares at you from his hiding spot.

Balek is the newest snow leopard at Jungle Cat World and is currently residing with Kush, a long time resident. It is the hope of the zoo that the two snow leopards will produce cubs to help with the Species Survival Plan which coordinates captive breeding efforts for conservation.

Kush has been a legend. Balek was very apprehensive to come out of hiding at his new home, but Kush's chuffs and encouragement helped him come around. He still doesn't like the snow leopard keeper and myself, likely for the role we played in bringing him to the zoo (a stressful experience for any cat), but perhaps Kush can help bridge the gap.

What a gorgeous snow leopard! Welcome, Balek!