Zoo's Snow Leopards Get Cool Treat on Spring Day

SAN DIEGO, CA: Snow leopards are native to the cold, rugged mountains of central Asia. The problem is, there isn't much snow in Southern California — especially at the San Diego Zoo, where two snow leopards named Penny and Anna live.

On Thursday, they got a special treat when more than 8 tons of the white, cold, fluffy stuff was blown into their habitat.

Penny, an almost 3-year-old female, seemed to enjoy the cold, soft substance; while Anna, a 13-year-old female snow leopard, wasn’t quite as enthralled with her snowy surroundings, park officials said.

"When first let into their exhibits, Penny cautiously entered, checking out her snow-covered surroundings. She appeared reluctant to explore, at first, but quickly exhibited her natural behaviors by clawing and scent-marking her habitat, and then dug up a femur bone buried by her keepers, and settled in a corner to eat.

"Once she was finished eating, she made the decision to play — and play she did: climbing, jumping, running, sliding and rolling in the snow. In her habitat next door, Anna climbed and explored briefly, and then chose to perch on an overhead walkway, warming herself in the sun and shying away from the snow."

Thursday marked the first time they experienced snow in their habitat. It was a special enrichment treat for the leopards — made possible by a donor.

Zoo officials said enrichment is important for all animals, as it keeps them stimulated and active, allowing them to show their natural behaviors.

Individuals can help the Zoo provide enrichment in various forms by donating to the park's online Animal Care Wish List, which is updated monthly and can be found at Sandiegozoo.org/wishlist.

Photos courtesy of San Diego Zoo