Two beloved snow leopards at the Cape May County Zoo have died, officials announced on Friday. Snow leopards Maliha and Bataar, who had been a couple since 2021, died within a few months of each other, the zoo said. Maliha, who was 13, was euthanized in April after an unexpected medical e vent, the zoo said. And Bataar, who was the second oldest snow leopard in the country at age 18, died in June after a year of receiving treatment for age-related illnesses. The pair never had any cubs themselves, but were often seen sunbathing together in their enclosure, zoo officials said. Bataar arrived at the Cape May County Zoo in 2015 and was the zoo’s first snow leopard. He had cubs with his first mate, Tysa, who was later transferred to another facility on a breeding recommendation, the zoo said. “Maliha and Bataar were beloved members of our zoo family, and they brought joy to countless visitors over the years,” said Commissioner Vice-Director Andrew Bulakowski, liaison to the Cape May County Park and Zoo. “Our dedicated animal care and veterinary staff gave them exceptional care throughout their lives, and especially in their final months. We share in the community’s sadness at their loss.” The zoo also said that is coordinating with the Snow Leopard Species Survival Plan (SSP) Program Leader at Blank Park Zoo to have a male and female snow leopard brought to the zoo in the future. “These new additions will support the SSP’s conservation breeding efforts and help continue the Cape May County Zoo’s commitment to the long-term preservation of this remarkable species,” the zoo said. ...read more read less