CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE – The Cape May County Park and Zoo announced the passing of its snow leopards, Maliha and Bataar.
Maliha was euthanized in April due to an unexpected medical event. She was 13 years old. Bataar was euthanized in early June after a year of treatment for age-related health conditions. At almost 18 years old, he was one of the oldest snow leopards in the country.
A crowd favorite, the pair was often seen sunbathing together on their outdoor platform. They were matched as a breeding pair by the Snow Leopard Species Survival Program but never produced cubs.
Bataar was the first snow leopard housed in the zoo’s new building when it opened in 2015. He successfully had cubs with his first mate, Tysa, before she was transferred to another facility on a breeding recommendation. Maliha joined Bataar in 2021, and the two remained together for the rest of their lives.
“Maliha and Bataar were beloved members of our zoo family, and they brought joy to countless visitors over the years,” said Cape May County Commission Vice Director Andrew Bulakowski, liaison to the Cape May County Park and Zoo. “Our dedicated animal care and veterinary staff gave them exceptional care throughout their lives, and especially in their final months. We share in the community’s sadness at their loss.”
The County Zoo is currently working with the Snow Leopard Species Survival Plan (SSP) Program Leader at Blank Park Zoo to coordinate the future arrival of a male and female snow leopard. These new additions will support the SSP’s conservation breeding efforts and help continue the Cape May County Zoo’s commitment to the long-term preservation of this remarkable species.
– Release and photo courtesy of Cape May County