Barnham Zoo celebrates birth of Lankan leopard cubs by inviting readers to name them

Banham Zoo in Norfolk is celebrating the birth of a pair of baby Sri Lankan leopards  born in September last year by inviting those in the community to name the cubs.

According to the Eastern Daily Press the  winners will be announced later this month and will be awarded some amazing prizes by the zoo.The birth of the cubs has been warmly welcomed by the zookeepers at Banham.

These endangered animals have bred successfully at the zoo for many years, but this is the first time for Sariska and her mate, Mias.

Zookeepers watched the birth of the two Sri Lankan Leopard cubs via a CCTV feed. Photo: Banham Zoo.

Michael Woolham, the zoo’s animal manager, told the publication : “It’s very exciting for the zoo. Sariska has so far been a super mother - very attentive and protective. I’m sure the cubs are going to grow up to be very healthy."

“Because Banham has a lot of experience with big cats and in particular Sri Lankan leopards, Mias was sent to us with the view that we might be able to persuade him to breed.”

The cubs, now almost four months old, have had their veterinary checks and vaccinations and have been identifed as two females.

Banham Zoo would like the cubs to be given names associated with Sri Lanka and is inviting readers to send their suggestions.

To enter, email two name suggestions to Banham Zoo’s marketing department at marketing@zsea.org

You can enter as many times as you like before the competition closes on Friday, January 5.

Photo courtesy - Photo: Banham Zoo.