Snow leopard cub born in UK's Chester Zoo for first time in 94 years

Chester Zoo is celebrating the birth of its first-ever snow leopard cub in its 94-year history. The rare cub arrived on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, to first-time parents Nubra and Yashin, both aged three. Since birth, the cub and its mother have been quietly bonding in a cosy den, with their heartwarming early moments captured on hidden camera footage.

The birth is part of an international breeding programme aimed at protecting the vulnerable species, which faces threats from habitat loss and poaching. With only an estimated 4,000 snow leopards remaining in the wild, the arrival of the cub offers renewed hope for their survival.

Keepers have been closely monitoring the new family via den cameras, observing strong bonding between mother and cub.

The pair are currently staying out of public view to ensure the cub gets the best start in life, but is expected to explore their outdoor habitat in the coming weeks.