The young big cat was born at the Altenfelden Wildlife Park in the Mühlviertel region of Upper Austria, where she lived in an enclosure with her parents. The female puma has strikingly bright blue eyes—which is why she was named Nilam, a name that means “blue gemstone.”

A team from the zoological department, led by veterinary specialist Dr. Reinhard Pichler, carried out the transfer of the female puma. “After sedating her in the large outdoor enclosure, I performed a health check. The animal was vaccinated, microchipped, and prepared for transport,” explains Dr. Reinhard Pichler. He also offers a preview of upcoming developments in the puma enclosure: “There will be more additions. The introduction of a second female is planned for mid-February 2018,” says the Head of Zoology.

The puma is one of the largest small cats and is also known as the “elegant master jumper.” Visitors can marvel at the record-holding jumper’s typical hunting strategy live during the guided feedings, when prey is presented dangling from a fishing line three meters above the ground. Another characteristic of this species: a puma doesn’t roar—it purrs!

Plans are in place to introduce Puma Seal to his new mate in the coming days. From that point on, the new arrival will also be on view for visitors.