The Buffalo Zoo has announced the birth and public debut of a new female ocelot kitten, named Amara. Guests can see Amara on exhibit on Saturday,
December 15 during the Rainforest Falls Day celebration at the Buffalo Zoo. In addition to seeing baby Amara, guests can view special animal enrichment demonstrations and hear short talks from the keepers who provide care for the animals in M&T Bank Rainforest Falls.
Amara’s conception and birth were based on a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Buffalo Zoo is a proud participant in their Species Survival Plan (SSP) program, which helps promote the survivability of this species and many others through planned breeding.
Born on September 25, 2018, Amara is the third kitten for mother Ayla and father, Pedro. Named by her keepers, Amara means “steadfast” and “immortal” and has German origins.
Mother Ayla has shown strong maternal instincts and is taking good care of the kitten. After spending the first couple of months together behind-the-scenes with her mother, Amara has gradually been given access to her habitat. “Amara is a very brave and curious kitten with a significant role. There’s been a dramatic decline in ocelot populations throughout their range, and we need to do all we can to help save these species in the wild,” said General Curator, Lisa Smith.
Researchers believe that there may be as few as 100 ocelots living in the United States today.
For more information on hours and admission prices at the Buffalo Zoo – you can visit their website at buffalozoo.org.
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