Pallas’ cats, also known as manuls, are small wild cats native to the mountains of Central Asia. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is home to two Pallas’ cats, Nancy and Bo, who are part of the zoo’s Asian Highlands exhibit. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information about these fascinating felines.
General Information about Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Pallas Cats
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Asian Highlands exhibit at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo |
| Age | Both Nancy and Bo are six years old (as of 2023) |
| Weight | Nancy weighs seven pounds, while Bo weighs 10 pounds |
| Habitat | Native to central Asia’s cooler climates at elevations up to about 15,000 feet above sea level |
| Conservation Status | Classified as ‘near threatened’ on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Red List |
Appearance and Behavior of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Pallas Cats
Pallas’ cats are often referred to as the original grumpy cats due to their intense stares, furrowed brows, and downturned mouths. However, their appearances do not necessarily reflect their moods. They have unique ears that sit on the sides of their fluffy round faces, which can sometimes give the impression they’re holding their ears back. Despite their small size and adorable appearance, Pallas’ cats are skilled hunters and defenders due to their mesopredator status.
Breeding and Reproduction of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Pallas Cats
Pallas’ cats typically have two to five kittens per litter. Nancy and Bo have not yet had kittens, but they are expected to in the future based on breeding recommendations from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan program. In human care, Pallas’ cats could one day contribute to a dwindling species in the wild, as they share habitats with snow leopards, which are threatened due to habitat loss.
Interaction with Keepers at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Nancy and Bo are known for their distinct personalities. Nancy is more elusive, shy, and cautious, while Bo is a smart, observant, and funny cat who enjoys interacting with keepers and onlookers during training sessions or when he finds something exciting, such as a delicious scent. Both cats purr and chatter much like a house cat, and they hiss in displeasure if provoked.
Visiting Cheyenne Mountain Zoo to See the Pallas Cats
To visit Nancy and Bo at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, guests can stop by the Asian Highlands exhibit during regular zoo hours. Admission fees vary depending on age and membership status. For those interested in supporting the zoo and its conservation efforts, symbolic adoptions are available for various animals, including Pallas’ cats, with different adoption packages ranging from $35 to $65.
References
- Pallas’ Cat Archives – CMZoo. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.cmzoo.org/news/archive/animal/pallas-cat/
- The original grumpy cat: Meet the Pallas’ cats at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. (2023, October 21). Retrieved from https://gazette.com/cheyenne-mountain-zoo/the-original-grumpy-cat-meet-the-pallas-cats-at-cheyenne-mountain-zoo/article_c154c9d2-6944-11ee-baf4-f36bf6bcc84d.html
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo 2010 – Pallas Cat – ZooChat. (2010, November 30). Retrieved from https://www.zoochat.com/community/media/cheyenne-mountain-zoo-2010-pallas-cat.128304/
- PHOTOS: Meet Bo and Nancy, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Pallas’ Cats. (2023, October 22). Retrieved from https://gazette.com/cheyenne-mountain-zoo/photos-meet-bo-and-nancy-cheyenne-mountain-zoos-pallas-cats/collection_45d15932-6efe-11ee-8108-13ceeafa707b.html
- Usually shy creatures, this Pallas’s cat came right up to the glass. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g33364-d274331-i318211084-Cheyenne_Mountain_Zoo-Colorado_Springs_El_Paso_County_Colorado.html.