San Diego Zoo Celebrates First Binturong Births Since 2000

SAN DIEGO, CA — The San Diego Zoo has welcomed two binturong babies, marking the first births of the species at the zoo in 26 years.

The babies, known as bintlets, were born March 27 to first-time parents Nettle and Garret, zoo officials announced Thursday. The births are the first at the zoo since 2000.

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Zoo officials said Nettle is nursing and grooming the babies as the family bonds in behind-the-scenes areas. While not yet on public display, guests may be able to see the animals through select upgraded experiences.

The births are part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan, which aims to support healthy populations of endangered or threatened species in human care.

Native to Asia, binturongs are classified as a vulnerable species. The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance also supports conservation efforts to protect wild populations in their native habitat.