Dartmoor Zoo Celebrates Birth of Critically Endangered Amur Leopard Cub

There’s exciting news from one of South Devon’s most beloved attractions! Dartmoor Zoo has welcomed a Critically Endangered Amur Leopard cub, marking an incredible milestone for global big cat conservation. 

Born on 29th September 2025, the cub is the first offspring of breeding pair Freddo and Lena and one of only 15 Amur Leopards born worldwide this year. With fewer than 120 individuals left in the wild, every birth is significant - both for the survival of the species and for the long-term future of conservation efforts across the globe. 

A Love Story Years in the Making 

Lena arrived at Dartmoor Zoo from Colchester Zoo in August 2024 as part of a carefully coordinated international breeding programme. After a successful introduction on 29th April 2025, the pair bonded quickly, showing mutual grooming and mating behaviour soon after. 

Just five months later, keepers watched via CCTV as Lena gave birth in the quiet and safety of her cubbing den. Now only a few weeks old, the young cub has already begun to explore its surroundings under Lena’s attentive watch. 

Dartmoor Zoo CEO, David Gibson expressed the significance of the moment: 

“The birth of our first Amur Leopard cub is the culmination of several years of planning and hard work. With less than 400 individuals left around the world, this arrival is globally important.” 

Why This Birth Matters 

The Amur Leopard is considered the rarest big cat on Earth, listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). While careful conservation has helped wild populations increase slowly, breeding within accredited zoos remains essential to secure a genetically healthy safety-net population. 

The WildCats Conservation Alliance reinforced this importance: 

“Each Amur leopard born in an accredited zoo strengthens a carefully managed breeding programme which acts as a genetically diverse reservoir for future reintroductions.” 

Zoos also play a crucial role in funding conservation work. In 2024, the international zoo community contributed over $350 million USD to support endangered species—including targeted efforts to protect Amur Leopards in Russia and China. 

A First-Time Mum Thriving 

Despite being a first-time mother, Lena has shown exceptional instinct and confidence. The zoo’s team reports she is calm, nurturing, and highly attentive: retrieving the cub if it ventures too far and keeping a close watch as it gains strength and mobility. 

Animal Manager, Madeleine Millin shared her excitement: 

“Lena has been doing a fantastic job caring for her little one. The cub is already moving around well, playing with mum and exploring the den.” 

Father Freddo, though separated during the final days before birth to mimic natural wild behaviour, has shown interest and calm curiosity during safe fenceline encounters. 

When Can Visitors See the Cub? 

For now, the Amur Leopard enclosure remains closed to the public so that the mother and cub can bond without disturbance. Dartmoor Zoo will announce viewing opportunities in due course, once keepers are confident the family is ready. 

Until then, visitors can take pride in knowing that simply supporting the zoo—through visits, memberships or donations—helps fuel conservation work both onsite and in the wild. 

Dartmoor Zoo Trustee, Simon Almond summed up the joy shared across the organisation: 

“To reach such an exciting milestone—successfully breeding one of the most endangered big cats on the planet—is truly amazing. We are thrilled to have played a part in this success.” 

Supporting the Future of Conservation 

This birth is not just a moment of celebration for Dartmoor Zoo, but a reminder of the vital role modern zoos play in safeguarding wildlife. With your support, the zoo can continue funding conservation efforts that protect species like the Amur Leopard for generations to come. 

If you’d like to help, consider donating or planning a visit! Read all about the Visit South Devon team’s visit to Dartmoor Zoo here.