ST. PAUL, Minn. (KMSP) - Two recently orphaned puma cubs from northern California are now calling Minnesota's Como Zoo home.
The cubs arrived in Minnesota on Tuesday after being cared for by wildlife specialists at the Oakland Zoo. The cubs, a male and female, are approximately 8-12 weeks old.
The cubs are not related. The male cub was orphaned after its mother, who was reportedly killing sheep, was shot and killed, which is allowed in California if you have obtained a depredation permit to protect your property.
The Oakland Zoo does not know what caused the female cub to become orphaned. She was discovered after a property owner heard her high-pitched chirps—the sound cubs make when they are calling for their mother. She was severely dehydrated, emaciated and covered in parasites and burrs when she was found.
The cubs are named Ruby and Jasper. Their names were chosen by the Como Friends Board leadership.
The cubs must go through a standard 30-day quarantine period before the public will be able to see them.