Clouded leopard cubs thriving at Tacoma, Wash., zoo

TACOMA, Wash. (AP) — Four tiny clouded leopard cubs are getting round-the-clock care and feeding from keepers at a Tacoma, Washington, zoo.

The clouded leopard is an endangered Southeast Asian cat. The quadruplets were born May 12 at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium to mother Chai Li (Chai-Lye). Their father is her mate, Nah Fun (Nah Foon).

Zoo biologist Andy Goldfarb says all four cubs are moving around well, eating and gaining weight. The smallest weighs just over 11 ounces while the largest weighs in at about 12 ½ ounces. Two cubs will fit in the palms of a zookeeper's hands.

Zoo General Curator Karen Goodrowe Beck says hand-raising the little clouded leopards produces the best results for their well-being. Right now that means a feeding with tiny bottles every three hours.

The cubs are not yet on public exhibit.