During the entire month of November, the Minnesota Zoo​ will be sharing stories of the many rescued and rehabilitated animals that we care for. All of our animals receive amazing care from zoo staff, volunteers and community members. All of this work is made possible because of YOUR amazing support – thank you! Check back daily as we feature a new story from around the Zoo.

The Zoo’s Medtronic Minnesota Trail is home to several species that could be spotted in our own backyards. Our two pumas are no exception. In fact, that is how they were rescued when they were orphaned cubs in the wild. In 2001, this brother and sister pair were found near a local residence in northern Minnesota after their mother was killed. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) found them and then donated them to the Minnesota Zoo where they have been thriving ever since. They even have regular dental check-ups to make sure they are as healthy as possible. If you’re exploring the trail, be sure to stop by and check out these puma siblings – more than likely you can spot them in their den on the left hand side of their habitat or perched on the top rocks.

Did you Know? Although pumas can make a wide range of cat noises (hisses, growls, purrs), they cannot roar. Instead, they are well known for their distinctive “screams.”