Koshi the snow leopard arrives at Highland Wildlife Park
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland has welcomed a new male snow leopard at the Highland Wildlife Park by Kincraig.
Staff at the wildlife conservation charity say they hope the park’s current female Animesh and the new arrival Koshi will have cubs in the future.
Keith Gilchrist, animal collection manager at the park, said: “We are very excited to welcome Koshi into our care and for visitors to meet him too.
“For the first few weeks, he’ll be kept separated from Animesh as he settles in and then we will slowly begin introductions.”
Koshi was born at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Ashford last year.
Briony Smith, head keeper at The Big Cat Sanctuary, said: “Koshi holds a special place in our hearts as he, alongside his brother Khumbu were the first ever snow leopards born at The Big Cat Sanctuary.
“It’s been a real privilege to watch him grow into a gentle, friendly and loving cat and as much as we will miss him, we know he is in safe hands. We will be proud to see him play an active part in the International Breeding Programme to help protect his species.”
Mr Gilchrist added: “Although we will miss Animesh’s cubs, Leannain and Stardust, as they move to their new home at Northumberland Zoo today, these moves are vital to the breeding programme.
“With under 3,500 snow leopards remaining in the wild, it is important that cats like Koshi are given the opportunity to father cubs, ensuring genetic diversity and ultimately safeguarding the future of the species.”
Watch Koshi's arrival in the Highlands here