Because of all the lockdowns happening not just in the United States but in many countries around the world due to the coronavirus pandemic, modern life has suddenly come to a standstill.
Many of the activities that we used to take for granted are either carefully planned excursions (such as going to the grocery store; no quick trip to satisfy a craving) or simply impossible (like meeting up with friends at a bar or restaurant).
While it seems that life has stopped for us, the reality is that life goes on for the other species on the planet. In fact, Zoo Miami officially welcomed the addition of two clouded leopard kittens that not only expanded the zoo’s family of animals but also made them more adorable.
According to the zoo, mother Serai and father Rajasi welcomed the new additions on February 11. The zoo added that birth is the second successful litter for both parents, a key milestone for these “highly endangered” animals.
With their large eyes and tiny tongues, it was easy for one’s heart to melt at seeing these fuzzy animals.
The kittens were secluded with their mother soon after their birth to “avoid any external stress and to allow proper bonding.”
For their neonatal exam on February 26, the kittens had to be taken from their mother temporarily land that’s how the zoo determined that the litter consisted of one male and one female kitten.
“Since that time, the kittens have continued to develop well while remaining in seclusion with their mother,” the zoo added.
The kittens were again separated on April 7 so that they could be vaccinated and so that their development could be observed.
“Both offspring appear to be thriving and the mother continues to be attentive and nursing them on a regular basis,” according to the zoo’s post.
Because of the pandemic, Zoo Miami is closed to the public. They are also taking more precautions for the safety of their animals.
“With the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent revelation that a tiger had contracted the disease at another zoological facility, extra care is being taken by all staff working around these kittens,” the zoo wrote.
Aside from the regular care provided, the facility is “stepping into disinfecting footbaths prior to entering any feline area” and will be wearing “masks and gloves while working in those areas.”
Replaced!