Three Sri Lankan leopard cubs were born on 1st of January at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, increasing the population of the rare species at the reserve to seven.
This marks the first birth of Sri Lankan leopard cubs at Mandai in nearly 30 years, with the previous birth recorded in 1997. The Singapore Zoo is now home to six Sri Lankan leopards, while one is housed at the Night Safari.
In a social media post on January 23, Mandai Wildlife Reserve said the cubs and their mother are spending time together away from public view, though visitors can catch a glimpse of them through the live cam at the Singapore Zoo’s leopard exhibit.
According to Anand Kumar, curator for animal care (operations) at Mandai Wildlife Group, this is the first litter for the cubs’ parents, Asanka and Yala. Yala’s pregnancy was confirmed in October 2025.
Describing Yala as an exceptional mother, Kumar said she is attentive and calm, closely watching over her playful triplets as they nurse, vocalise, and explore their surroundings. He added that it has been a joy for staff to observe the cubs grow stronger each day.
There are fewer than 800 Sri Lankan leopards remaining in the wild, where they prey on animals such as deer and wild boar. While their lifespan in the wild ranges from 10 to 12 years, they can live up to 20 years in captivity.
The Sri Lankan leopard is well adapted for survival, with excellent vision both day and night and a camouflaged coat that helps it blend into foliage and avoid threats such as poachers.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve is also experiencing a broader baby boom. Just days after the New Year, two capybara pups were born—the first such birth at the reserve in nearly a decade—bringing the total capybara population to 13.
The capybara pups and their mother can be seen near the Amazon River Quest boat ride in the River Wonders section of the park, as well as during the Once Upon A River presentation and the Amazonia Encounters walk-through exhibit.
In addition, Mandai will host a family-friendly event titled “Lenny’s Toddler Techno Tour” on January 31 at the Green Canvas. The interactive show, aimed at children aged one to five, will feature nursery rhymes and children’s songs remixed into upbeat techno music.
Tickets for the hour-long show are priced from $69 per person and are available via Trip.com. Lenny Pearce, a family entertainer known for pioneering toddler techno and baby raves, will lead the performance, encouraging dance, movement, and participation for young children and their families.
