SANFORD, Fla. (June 8, 2026) – The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is excited to announce the arrival of two cougar cubs that are already capturing the hearts of the Zoo’s animal care team.
The approximately 10-week-old siblings, one male and one female, arrived at the Zoo from South Dakota after they were found without their mother when they were just two to three weeks old. The cubs were deemed too young to be released back into the wild, so the Zoo was contacted to provide them with a permanent home and the care they need to thrive. 
“Our animal care team is providing the specialized attention they need, and we’re excited to watch them reach new milestones,” said Richard Glover, CEO. “They’re curious, playful and growing quickly, and their story is a powerful reminder of the role accredited zoos play in animal care and education.”
Currently weighing between 9 and 12 pounds the pair are growing at an impressive rate, gaining up to half a pound each day as they continue to develop and explore their surroundings.
As part of standard animal care protocols, the cubs will remain in quarantine for at least 30 days. Zoo veterinarians and animal care staff are closely monitoring the cubs as they learn and grow, watching for age-appropriate behaviors such as making small climbs, scratching through substrate and calling to one another when startled. These natural behaviors are important indicators of healthy development.
Native to North, Central and South America, cougars are among the continent’s largest wild cats and are known for their agility, strength and adaptability. The arrival of the cubs provides an opportunity for the Zoo to educate guests about these remarkable animals.
Visitors will have the opportunity to see the cubs later this year once they are ready to make their public debut.
