The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has announced the birth of three Arabian leopard cubs—one male and two females—marking a historic step in efforts to save this critically endangered subspecies.
Born at RCU’s Arabian Leopard Conservation Breeding Centre this summer, the triplets are the first such litter recorded in captivity in Saudi Arabia and only the third in roughly 30 years.
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Monitored via CCTV to minimize disturbance, the cubs are already displaying unique personalities. The males are described as playful and adventurous, while the female is more reserved, staying close to their mother. These interactions are vital as they establish social behaviors and hierarchies essential for their development.
The breeding center, the world’s most successful for Arabian leopards, recently welcomed twin cubs earlier this year. Since RCU assumed management in 2020, the center’s population has grown from 14 to 32 leopards.
“The Arabian leopard is a symbol of our commitment to restoring AlUla’s natural environment,” said Dr. Stephen Browne, RCU’s VP of Wildlife and Natural Heritage. “Through careful conservation efforts, we aim to reintroduce these leopards into the wild, helping them thrive in protected nature reserves.”
Classified as critically endangered since 1996, fewer than 100 Arabian leopards are estimated to remain in the wild. RCU’s breeding efforts represent a critical step in reversing this decline and ensuring the species’ survival.
