Chemnitz Zoo: Offspring of the man owls
Six-week-old cubs can now also be seen in the outdoor enclosure
Manule
Since 2015, the zoo has been keeping a particularly beautiful and rare species of small cat, the manul. The male cat from Chemnitz was born in Moscow Zoo in 2013 and the female was born in a Scottish zoo in 2014. Until now, there have been no offspring, but now it has finally worked out.
Mother "Pema" has been looking after three fur babies since 30 May. The cubs spent the first few weeks exclusively in the whelping box, but now, with a bit of luck, they can also be seen in the outdoor enclosure. They are being closely monitored by the animal keepers and the vet, as young manouls are very susceptible to various diseases, and although the three are off to a good start, they are still at a vulnerable age.
The Manul, also known as the Pallas's cat, is found in Central Asia, especially in Mongolia, and can be found at altitudes of up to 5000 metres. Its thick fur protects it from the cold and snow. The species is part of a European conservation breeding programme. In 2017, this programme comprised around 125 individuals across Europe.
Note for the media: It is not possible to view the whelping box.
Opening hours
Chemnitz Zoo: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., last admission 6 p.m.
Oberrabenstein Wildlife Park: 8 am to 6 pm