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Singapore Zoo welcomes three endangered Sri Lankan leopard cubs – the first-ever litter

The cubs can be seen with their mother daily until mid-May, with their names to be revealed at a later date

Mingli Seet
Written by
Mingli Seet
Contributor, Time Out Singapore
Leopard cubs singapore zoo
Photograph: Mandai Wildlife Group | Two of the leopard cubs triplets playfighting in the den
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There’s a new reason to visit Singapore Zoo, and it comes in threes.

The zoo has just introduced its first-ever litter of Sri Lankan leopard cubs to the public – two males and one female, born on January 1 to parents Yala and Asanka.

Leopard cubs singapore zoo
Photograph: Mandai Wildlife GroupThe three-month-old cubs and their mother

Now just over three months old, the cubs are beginning to explore their enclosure in Wild Africa. With the new arrivals, the zoo is now home to six Sri Lankan leopards, with another one at Night Safari. 

It’s a milestone that’s been a long time coming. While Singapore Zoo has seen the species before, this marks the first successful birth at the zoo itself, with the last birth recorded at Night Safari three decades ago.

A first health check for the leopard cubs singapore zoo
Photograph: Mandai Wildlife GroupA first health check for the leopard cubs

Beyond the obvious appeal, the arrival matters. Sri Lankan leopards are listed as ‘vulnerable’ status, with fewer than 800 estimated to remain in the wild and only a small number under managed care globally. Breeding programmes like this one – part of an international effort to maintain genetic diversity – play a quiet but important role in keeping the population viable.

If you’re planning a visit, now’s a good time. The cubs can be seen with their mother daily until mid-May. After that, you’ll only be able to see them on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Their names  are still under wraps for now.

Local residents can tap on the free WildPass for discounted entry (from $39.20 for adults, $27.20 for children), and birthday visitors get a complimentary ticket with a paying guest. Tickets can be purchased here.

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