Meet Zeya, the Rare Amur Leopard Cub: A First Glimpse at Dartmoor Zoo
A rare Amur leopard cub, Zeya, has made her first public appearance at Dartmoor Zoo in Devon, captivating the hearts of animal enthusiasts and conservationists alike. Born on September 29th to breeding pair Freddo and Lena, Zeya is a precious addition to the zoo's collection and a symbol of hope for her endangered species.
The cub's name, Zeya, pays homage to the River Zeya in the Amur region of eastern Russia, where Amur leopards roam in the wild. According to Dartmoor Zoo, Zeya is one of only 15 Amur leopards born worldwide in 2025, making her an incredibly rare and special individual.
As Zeya settles into her on-show enclosure, the public is now able to catch a glimpse of this adorable cub. However, the zoo kindly requests that visitors remain calm and quiet to ensure Zeya feels safe and secure in her new home. The cub is still adjusting to her surroundings, and the zoo wants to provide her with a peaceful environment during this critical period.
Zeya and her mother, Lena, moved into the main leopard habitat on Monday, following thorough vet checks and vaccinations. The zoo's staff is delighted to observe the cub's curiosity and healthy development as she explores her new environment. Chief Executive David Gibson expressed his excitement, stating, 'Moving mum Lena and cub Zeya into the main Amur leopard enclosure here at Dartmoor Zoo is a momentous occasion.'
He continued, 'Our keepers have had the privilege of witnessing Zeya's growth and exploration over the past few months, and now our visitors will have the opportunity to share in this joy and witness Zeya's development of essential skills for her future.'
Amur leopards are the rarest big cats on the planet, with only approximately 120 remaining in the wild. While their numbers have increased slightly due to enhanced legal protection in Russia and China, they remain critically endangered. The birth of Zeya is a significant milestone, offering a glimmer of hope for the survival of this magnificent species.
