Adopt a Clouded Leopard

The clouded leopard, one of the world’s most elusive cats, is under threat due to habitat loss and illegal hunting. Their natural habitat in the forests of southeast Asia is shrinking at one of the fastest rates in the world due to deforestation for logging and urbanisation.

Little is known about clouded leopards in the wild, due to their shy and secretive nature. However, the increase in camera trap technology in recent years has allowed their population numbers to be better understood. The species is currently classed as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List, with estimates suggesting a declining population with as few as 3,700 - 5,580 mature individuals remaining.  

With ongoing habitat decline, the clouded leopard falls victim to further human-wildlife conflict, both targeted hunting for the illegal wildlife trade and accidental capture in snares. This beautiful species is hunted primarily for their skin, but there is also a recently uncovered trade in bones (to supplement the tiger bone trade), meat (for exotic cuisine) and live animals (for the exotic pet trade).  

How a clouded leopard adoption helps

We have worked with partners on projects to rewild and protect clouded leopards in the past and we have several candidates for potential re-introduction at our partner parks. We will keep you updated with our next plans.

Clouded leopards in Kent

Both our partner parks, Howletts Wild Animal Park and Port Lympne Reserve, are home to some stunning clouded leopards. See them for free with your adoption (except Bronze).

Howletts Wild Animal Park are one of the most successful breeders of clouded leopards in Europe and hold the European stud book for the species. (Holding the European studbook means the park oversees the breeding and transfer of the species across Europe).

In 2018, International Clouded Leopard Day was founded by the keepers at Howletts Wild Animal Park to increase the profile of both clouded leopards in captivity and in the wild. Taking place on 4^th August, it is recognised by zoos and conservation organisations across the world.

Adopt a clouded leopard and help to protect endangered species.

Fun facts about clouded leopards

• Clouded leopards possess the largest canines, in proportion to their body size, out of all the cats.
• The clouded leopard is able to hang upside down between tree branches using their claws and large paws for a steady grip.
• The clouded leopard is named after the distinctive 'clouds' on its coat - ellipses partially edged in black, with the insides a darker colour than the background colour of the pelt.
• Their ankles can rotate backward so the cat can climb down a tree headfirst, climb upside down, and even hang from its back feet, leaving the powerful front paws free to snatch at prey.