It is with deep sadness that The Big Cat Sanctuary can confirm the passing of Laila’s snow leopard cub, affectionately nicknamed ‘Little Lady’, who was born at the Sanctuary on 10th May 2025.
Our dedicated animal care team, who had been closely monitoring Laila and her cub since birth, are heartbroken by this loss. The cub sadly passed away late on the 4th June, and we are currently reviewing CCTV footage of the night with our expert team and vets to try and understand what may have occurred.
“We are all devastated by this news,” said Cam Whitnall, wildlife expert, conservationist and Managing Director of The Big Cat Sanctuary. “Laila is receiving the best possible care, and our focus is now on her well-being. While deeply saddened by this loss, our commitment to snow leopard conservation and the European Endangered Species Breeding Programme remains as strong as ever. Every life is precious, and this loss, though profoundly felt, reinforces the vital importance of our work to protect these magnificent and vulnerable big cats.”
Laila and her breeding partner, Yarko, have a successful breeding history, with previous offspring moving to other wildlife institutions to contribute to the vital breeding programme. Through responsible breeding, the Sanctuary remains committed to helping maintain a genetically healthy captive population, providing a critical safety net for the future of this elusive big cat. In the wild and captivity, cub survival rates can vary dramatically with some studies showing rates as low as 30%, and others reaching 80%, highlighting the challenges young cubs face.
While this loss is a difficult part of the reality of conservation work, it strengthens our resolve to keep improving care, protocols, and collaboration across the sector. We continue to work alongside leading conservationists, researchers, and zoological partners to create ethical, sustainable strategies that give species like the snow leopard a real chance at survival.
We thank our members, supporters, and the wider community for their ongoing understanding and compassion. These moments are never easy, but they reflect just how important our work is.