Cape May County Zoo

Popular Snow Leopard at Cape May County Zoo Dies

Members of the Cape May County Zoo are in mourning after the loss of one of their most popular animals.

Vijay, a male snow leopard passed away on March 5 from complications associated with Kidney Disease. He was 16-years-old. Cape May County Zoo officials said he had recently been fighting several illnesses over the years, including glaucoma and kidney stones.

"Vijay was the sire of all the seven cubs born at that Cape May County Zoo over a four year  period,” said Zoo Director and Veterinarian Dr. Hubert Paluch. “Snow leopards are part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which oversees all breeding of endangered species in zoos. The species survival program operates at 300 zoos worldwide and develops comprehensive population management plans to ensure a healthy, genetically diverse, and varied animal population. Vijay was a vital participant in the SSP, and his genetics are well represented in the population." 

Vijay first came to the Cape May County Zoo from the Baltimore Zoo in 2005. He was joined by his mate Himani a few years later and they had seven cubs together.

“Vijay was a favorite among the Zoo Staff because of his laid back and affable personality," said Freeholder E. Marie Hayes, the liaison to the Cape May County Zoo. "I speak for my colleagues on the Board of Chosen Freeholders, and the staff at the Park and Zoo, in saying we are deeply saddened by the loss of Vijay and will miss him.”
 

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