Cougar Cubs Find A Home: Newest Residents At Oregon Zoo

Spring has brought a delightful surprise to visitors at the Oregon Zoo with the introduction of adorable new inhabitants: two orphaned cougar cubs, Link and Nova. These young felines, who are slowly adjusting to their new environment, symbolize both hope and the urgent need for wildlife conservation, making them the center of attention for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Link and Nova, rescued from southwest Washington last year, are getting accustomed to life in captivity after experiencing a tumultuous start. Their discovery by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife was prompted by the unfortunate loss of their siblings and the difficult circumstances surrounding their mother. “That was a big sign for Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to step in,” shared Ali Azevedo, a North American keeper at the zoo. The kittens arrived at the zoo a bit underweight and dehydrated but have shown incredible resilience as they grow and adapt.

At approximately 7 to 8 months old, Link and Nova’s personalities are beginning to blossom. “We’re so proud of them and their progress,” Azevedo remarked, noting that they are thriving in training sessions and interaction with their keepers. Though still in the cub stage, Link and Nova are already sizeable—Link weighing in at 70 pounds and Nova at 52 pounds—demonstrating how swiftly they are maturing.

As the cubs adjust to their surroundings, they showcase their inquisitive nature by keeping a keen eye on zoo neighbors, such as the black bear cubs, an interest dubbed “Bear Cub TV” by their keepers. Their playful demeanor is a reassuring indicator of their newfound stability, though it’s essential for them to maintain a healthy distance from visitors while still fostering their socialization skills.

In the wild, cougars face numerous threats, making the work that Azevedo and others do at the zoo vital. Not only are the cubs a reminder of the wilds that exist near Portland, but they also educate the public about conservation. Azevedo emphasized the importance of everyday actions, like driving slower in wildlife corridors and keeping cats indoors, to ensure safety for all local wildlife, including cougars.

As more visitors venture to the Oregon Zoo, the chance to glimpse these captivating cubs in their habitat is an opportunity not to be missed. For now, access to their exhibit is limited, but zoo officials hope that with continued training and acclimatization, Link and Nova will soon be accessible to visitors on weekends as well.

In closing, Link and Nova are more than just cute cubs; they serve as a powerful reminder of the need for wildlife conservation. As we admire their playful antics, let's engage in meaningful discussions about how we can support wildlife in our own communities. How can we continue to protect these majestic creatures and their habitats? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

• cougar
• Oregon Zoo
• Wildlife Conservation