This beautiful photo of Shimbu was taken by one of her keenest admirers, Glenn McColl, who regularly photographs the snow leopards at Melbourne Zoo. It's a lovely photo that all who knew Shimmie will treasure.
Sad news recently from the team at Melbourne Zoo that Shimbu, our lovely 21 year old female snow leopard had passed away. All of us snow leopard sponsors knew she wouldn’t be with us much longer, but still it was a sad day for us. Shimmie, as she was called by keepers and visitors, had been in the Zoo for many years. Until about 18 months ago, she shared an enclosure with Gregor, who was also 21 years old when he died.
For Shimmie and Gregor both to reach such a wonderful age was a great success for the Zoo staff, the two snow leopards were certainly adored and looked after. I know one of the keepers at least, shed a tear when he said goodbye to her. “She’s been here as long as I have, she was a great girl” said Adrian Howard.
Read more about snow leopards at Melbourne Zoo, Australia.
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Yes it is very sad to see her go, and a tribute to Howie and his staff that both these SLs had lived so long with dignity and presence. They have enriched the experiences of many visitors, including me.
Sad news indeed. Glen’s wonderful photo is testament to Shimbu’s great majesty and beauty!