Miracle Birth of Rare Amur Leopard Twins Brings Hope to the Future of the Species

The San Diego Zoo has announced the birth of two critically endangered Amur leopard cubs, bringing hope to the future of this rare species. Born on March 28th, the cubs were monitored by remote cameras while they became acquainted with their new world, and their mom Sitka. Zoo officials say that both cubs appear to be healthy and are being well-cared-for by their mother.   There are fewer than 200 Amur leopards in the world. The Siberian natives have, however, been either increasing in number since 2007, or hovering around the same small number that conservationists have become simply better at locating them.   The birth of the cubs at the San Diego Zoo is a significant step in efforts to save the species from extinction. The San Diego Zoo has a long history of successful conservation breeding programs, including for other endangered species such as the California condor and the giant panda.   The zoo is planning to give the public an opportunity to see the cubs in person once they are old enough to safely leave their den. In the meantime, the birth of the cubs is a ray of hope for the future of the Amur leopard and a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species.