Credit: Brookfield Zoo Chicago/Cover Images Two Amur leopard cubs took their first steps and practiced their pouncing with mum in their own private habitat at Brookfield Zoo in Chicago. The cubs, born to mother Mina (pronounced MEE-nuh), belong to the world’s rarest big cat species, marking what the zoo described as an important milestone in its conservation work. They recently underwent their first wellness examination, which included weighing and vaccinations. Dr Copper Aitken-Palmer, senior veterinarian at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, said: “These two, just like my young son, were hesitant to see the doctor. They are gorgeous and appear healthy, weighing about 6 and 6.4 pounds. They’ve now got their initial protections for viruses and parasites. This eight-week exam was the first step towards getting them outside to meet the world, hopefully in time to see our first snowfall!” Animal care staff say the cubs are practising their pouncing and following their mother’s lead. They hope the young leopards will make their public debut in the coming months. Unlike their African cousins, Amur leopards are adapted to cold climates, making snowy conditions ideal for their first steps outdoors.