Dudley Zoo has announced with sadness the sudden death of their female snow leopard, Nanga.

The seven year-old big cat died on Tuesday night from complications due to labour.

She gave birth to a large healthy male cub on Monday morning, but then became ill, and despite urgent veterinary care, nothing could be done to save her.

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the sudden death of DZ’s female snow leopard, Nanga.

The seven year-old big cat died last night from complications due to labour.

Nanga gave birth to a large, healthy male cub on Monday morning, but was taken ill yesterday evening and despite urgent veterinary care, nothing could be done to save her. Zoo Director, Derek Grove, said:

“Nanga and the cub were being monitored by CCTV cameras and staff reacted immediately.

“All at Dudley Zoo are understandably devastated at her death, but we’re thankful that Nanga was alive long enough to provide the first important feeds for the cub, which has put it in great stead.”

The cub, who has been named Milo by the section’s staff, is being handreared by Senior Keeper Sarah Evans. 

Sarah will provide round-the-clock care for the tiny cat for the next 14 weeks and he will remain off show for the next few weeks. 

The attractions males, Margaash and Makalu, remain in the enclosure, with Makalu’s move to Darjeeling Zoo in India still on schedule within the next fortnight.