Rare Arabian Leopard Triplets Born at RCU Breeding Centre

lUla, December 5, 2024 – The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has announced the birth of a rare litter of three Arabian leopard cubs—two males and one female—marking a significant milestone in efforts to safeguard the future of this critically endangered subspecies. The cubs were born this summer at the RCU’s Arabian Leopard Conservation Breeding Centre, making them the first triplets of their kind born in captivity in Saudi Arabia.

Historic Births and Early Observations

The cubs are under constant observation by the center's expert team via CCTV to ensure they are not disturbed. The two male cubs have shown an adventurous streak, frequently climbing rocks and engaging in playful fights. The female cub, however, is described as more reserved, remaining close to her mother, Ward.

Ward, a 6-year-old female, and the cubs’ father, Baher, aged 13, are key to the breeding program. Baher, one of two leopards known as Founders, was introduced to the center last December through a regional exchange initiative designed to diversify the genetic pool. This strategy is essential for creating a robust population capable of eventual reintroduction into the wild.

Conservation Achievements

This is the third recorded instance of Arabian leopard triplets being born in captivity globally in the past 30 years and the first within Saudi Arabia. The Arabian Leopard Conservation Breeding Centre has become the world’s most successful breeding site for this critically endangered species, which has been classified as such by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) since 1996.

In addition to the triplets, the center celebrated a recent baby boom with the birth of twin cubs earlier this year. A total of five cubs have been born in 2024, following seven births last year, bringing the total population at the center to 32 leopards, more than doubling the initial count of 14 when the RCU assumed leadership of the program in 2020.

Restoration and Reintroduction Efforts

The RCU’s long-term goal is to reintroduce the Arabian leopard into the wild in AlUla. This ambitious project is supported by the ongoing restoration of six nature reserves in the region, part of the Saudi Green Initiative’s broader commitment to protecting 30% of the Kingdom’s terrestrial and marine areas.

The triplets have already undergone their first vaccinations and health checks, which confirmed their sexes. They are expected to remain with their mother for approximately 18 months before progressing to the next stages of the breeding program.

A Promising Future

“The birth of these triplets symbolizes a beacon of hope for the survival of the Arabian leopard,” an RCU spokesperson said. “This achievement underscores the critical importance of collaborative conservation efforts and the commitment of the Kingdom to restoring its natural heritage.”

With an estimated 100 Arabian leopards remaining in the wild, the RCU’s breeding program and broader conservation initiatives are vital to ensuring the survival of this iconic species. The center continues to spearhead efforts to preserve and grow the population, providing a model for conservation work in the region and beyond.

📷SPA