New Mountain Lion Cubs Welcomed At Bergen County Zoo

PARAMUS, NJ — Two mountain lion cubs are now being taken of at the Bergen County Zoo.

The cubs, which are brothers, were obtained from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife in late September.

The cubs will not be on display for public viewing until the spring when they are old enough to climb safely and well, said Michael Pagan, a county spokesman.

In addition to the cubs, the zoo also announced it has been accredited by The Association of Zoos & Aquariums. The zoo underwent a thorough review to meet standards in various categories, including animal care and welfare, veterinary programs, conservation, education and safety. The accreditation lasts for five years.

The association is the accrediting body for the best zoos and aquariums in the United States and in eight other countries. It is a nonprofit dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science, and recreation.

“We are so excited to welcome these two brother mountain lion cubs to the Bergen County Zoo,” said Bergen County Executive James Tedesco.“And we’re excited that our zoo received accreditation from the prestigious Association of Zoos & Aquariums. We are committed to making the Bergen County Zoo the best possible zoo it can be, and that goal is being accomplished thanks to our wonderful and talented staff.”

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Photo: Bergen County Executive James Tedesco with one of the Bergen County Zoo's newly-acquired mountain lion cubs./Courtesy of Bergen County