2 female clouded leopards join Memphis Zoo CHINA exhibit
The Memphis Zoo is welcoming two new animals to its CHINA exhibit. Kamala, 4, and Rajani, 10, a female clouded leopard duo, have traveled from the Nashville Zoo and are acclimating to their new enclosure, according to a press release.
"This will be the first time these leopards have ever seen a glass wall as part of their exhibit, so keepers have added a frosted effect to the glass to assist them in learning about that barrier," the press release states.
Clouded leopards are the most ancient feline species in the world and weighing in at just over 30 pounds have earned their spot in the "big cat" realm due to their fused hyoid bone, according to the press release. A fused hyoid bone makes cats unable to purr, a trait that is used to differentiate between big cats and small cats.
Their name comes from the distinctive "cloud" pattern on their fur, the zoo said. Clouded leopards' fur is brown or yellowish, with spots that irregularly dot their fur. The big cat also has the longest teeth and tails in proportion to their body. The endangered species has faced threats from poaching and habitat loss in Asia.
Kamala and Rajani will be located in the CHINA exhibit dayrooms. The press release states that the height and soundproof design of the dayrooms will be comfortable for the duo.
As Kamala and Rajani get used to their new home, they will have access to areas away from the public and zookeepers from Nashville will be present during the transition, the press release states.
Brooke Muckerman covers Shelby County Government for The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached at 901484-6225, brooke.muckerman@commercialappeal.com and followed on X, formerly known as Twitter @Brookemuckerman.