SUAMICO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – One of the NEW Zoo’s oldest exhibits got a much-needed update.
On Wednesday, the zoo held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new snow leopard building and habitat.
Breaking ground nearly a year ago, the new exhibit encompasses 912 square feet of indoor space with stainless steel containment systems, including an indoor area for training and behind-the-scenes experiences, and more than 1,000 square feet of outdoor space featuring a new 14’ tall rock wall structure.
Those who go on the Neil Anderson Canopy Tour will be able to get a birds eye view of the exhibit.
Zoo director, Carmen Murach, says the zoo’s snow leopard, Ahava, is already feeling confident in her new home and has been much more interactive with staff and guests.
“It’s great to have animals like snow monkeys, snow leopards, some of these creatures who really love the cold, cold weather because we do get that and they’re very comfortable here and we’re open year round so it’s great to have animals who are very active throughout the year for our guests to be able to see.”
With the newly expanded exhibit, the zoo will now be able to participate in the snow leopard breeding program.
Unfortunately, in October,fox11online.comthe zoo’s male snow leopard, Raja, passed away after battling kidney disease.
Murach says a 5-year-old male snow leopard from Iowa will join the NEW Zoo next week. She says it will be quite some time before the two cats can be together but they will be able to take turns using the exhibit until they can share the space.
She’s hoping in the future, the two can breed and maybe there will be baby snow leopards in the zoo’s future.
The NEW Zoological Society and project lead donors Lee and Kathy Anderson and Steve and Bonnie Van Lannen helped fund the project.
