Five Sisters Zoo announces death of clouded leopard Cirrus after weeks of 'serious health challenges'

Cirrus first arrived at the zoo in March 2022 after being rehomed from a private facility.

The female clouded leopard, which is native to southeast Asia, arrived alongside a male called Peckham, with the pair being the only clouded leopards in Scotland.

Five Sisters Zoo said in a statement: “At 10 years old, Cirrus had been facing serious health challenges in recent weeks.

“With the support of specialist veterinarians, it was discovered that she had developed a fast-growing, aggressive tumour.

“Despite every effort to support her, the difficult decision was made on Tuesday afternoon to let her go.”

During her time at Five Sisters Zoo, Cirrus became one of the zoo’s most popular residents.

The zoo added: “While it is never easy to say goodbye, the team takes comfort in knowing that Cirrus was cared for with love and dedication throughout her time at the zoo, and that she brought so much joy to so many people.

“She will be deeply missed by staff, volunteers, and visitors alike.”

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Cirrus has been mourned by visitors on social media.

One heartbroken zoo patron said: “Such a shame. A beautiful wild cat.

“The silver lining being that she received a lot of love and care during her time at the zoo, leaving a legacy behind her that will no doubt sit with the keepers for the rest of their lives.”

Another person added: “Devastated she was one of my favourites, she posed so well on the photography morning I attended, beautiful girl. Thoughts with her keepers as [this] must be so hard on them.”