BILLABONG Zoo’s snow leopard Khumbu passed away peacefully on 3 August at the age of 21, surrounded by the keepers who had cared for him for the past 10 years.
“Khumbu holds a special place in our history as our very first big cat,” a Zoo spokesperson told News Of The Area.
“He arrived from Mogo Zoo in November 2011 for the grand opening of our Snow Leopard Exhibit, instantly capturing hearts with his majestic presence and playful nature.
“After enjoying six months in Port Macquarie, Khumbu transferred to Taronga Zoo in 2012 to meet his lady-love, the stunning Samarra.
“The pair returned to Billabong Zoo in 2015, where they lived out their days surrounded by the care of their devoted keepers and the admiration of thousands of visitors.
“Khumbu was not only an ambassador for his species, promoting the vital conservation message and amazing work of The Snow Leopard Trust, but also a source of joy, laughter, and inspiration.”
Senior Big Cat Keeper Brooke Stone, with keepers Christy Brown and Brad Hilderbrandt, said, “While our hearts are heavy, we choose to celebrate the incredible life Khumbu led and the profound impact he had on so many.”
Billabong Zoo invites the community to consider a donation to the Snow Leopard Trust to help protect this magnificent and endangered species.
By Pauline CAIN
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