Jaguar Cub
Jaguar Cub Born
On Thursday, July 31, Alexandria Zoo welcomed the arrival of a jaguar cub born to our resident jaguars, Bebu and Philomena.
The cub will remain with its mother in a private den for the immediate future to allow for crucial bonding and development. Stay tuned for updates on the cub’s progress and future viewing opportunities.
Local Birth, Global Impact
The birth of this cub represents not only a joyous occasion for the Alexandria Zoo but also a vital contribution to jaguar conservation. "The birth of any animal at the Zoo is exciting but the birth of this jaguar cub is especially important," said Zoo Director Landon Proctor.
"The jaguar is the face of our zoo and is an internationally important conservation species. Our dedicated animal care team works extremely hard to provide the best care for these animals to help with conservation across the globe. This incredible story of Bebu and his role in conservation highlights how important local action is in global conservation. Your local zoo is important in global conservation and we are making a difference every single day."
Local Birth, Global Impact
Discover the vital role Alexandria Zoo plays in global conservation efforts for this important species.
Bebu's Journey
From Panama to Alexandria Zoo
Bebu’s journey to Alexandria is a testament to international conservation efforts. Wild born in October 2011 in Panama, tragedy struck when he and his brother were orphaned at just four months old. His relocation to the United States along with his brother and a third jaguar was the result of a coordinated effort involving the Jaguar Species Survival Plan (SSP), a dedicated program focused on the long-term survival of this magnificent species, Alexandria Zoo and two other zoos.
"It was a great experience for me to be a part of the collaborated trip amongst three zoo facilities to travel to Panama," said General Curator Lisa Laskoski. "This was a very important addition to our North American population to add new genetics and have strong healthy jaguars." Bebu and the other two jaguars were cared for at the Parque Summit Zoo in Panama, which only houses native animals that have been confiscated or are non-releasable. "I had the opportunity to travel to Panama to bring Bebu home to Alexandria. He will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am thrilled he has given us a beautiful cub to admire along with him."
An Experienced Mother
Philomena, also know as Philly, had a litter previously while she was at Memphis Zoo. Both the veterinary team and zookeeper staff have been keeping a close eye on mom and the cub, ensuring they are both in good health and the baby is progressing appropriately. “Philly has been an amazing mother,” said Aubrey Wagar, the jaguars’ primary keeper. “She has been very attentive, protective and nurturing. The cub is growing and progressing beautifully. It’s becoming more mobile and starting to adventure a little from mom.”
Philly was born January 27, 2015 at the Brevard Zoo in Florida. She arrived at Alexandria Zoo in 2022.
Weekly Wellness Checks
As part of our comprehensive wellness program, the cub receives a weekly health check-up to ensure it is thriving.
These brief but thorough check-ups are vital for monitoring the cub's development during these critical early stages. This proactive care allows us to track every milestone and ensures our newest arrival is getting the healthiest possible start to life.
The physical exams include a weigh-in to ensure steady and appropriate growth. Listening to the heart and lungs with a gentle stethoscope check. Examining the eyes, ears, and mouth for healthy development. Assessing overall body condition, muscle tone, and alertness.
These examinations are carefully coordinated to be as quick as possible, allowing the cub to be returned promptly to its watchful and attentive mother.
How Alexandria Zoo Helps Jaguars
Through FOTAZ, Alexandria Zoo financially supports Zoo Conservation Outreach Group's (ZCOG) conservation efforts promoting wildlife and habitat conservation throughout the Americas.
ZCOG’s Jaguar Fund supports research and stakeholder engagement activities that help secure the objectives of national jaguar conservation and recovery plans in Latin American countries.
Support Jaguar Conservation
Through FOTAZ, Alexandria Zoo contributes to Zoo Conservation Outreach Group (ZCOG), a non-profit coalition of zoos, aquariums, and related partners committed to promoting wildlife and habitat conservation throughout the Americas. Help us contribute to ZCOG’s jaguar conservation programs.
Secure Your Spot
This is an opportunity for you to contribute to the ongoing zoo enhancements at the jaguar habitat. Purchase a personalized engraved plaque to be installed at the future Jaguar Deck. Etch your name, your family's legacy, or a special message into the very foundation of this exciting new addition.
Symbolically Adopt
As our newest ambassador for this magnificent species, this cub represents a bright hope for the future of jaguars. Now, you can play a vital role in their story by becoming a symbolic adoptive parent!
