Two recently orphaned puma cubs from different locations in Northern California are now playing, bonding and calling Como Zoo home.

The pumas arrived from California to Como on Oct. 30 after being cared for by Oakland Zoo wildlife specialists, according to a press release from the Como Zoo.

Como Zookeepers and University of Minnesota veterinary staff are monitoring and tending to the cubs, a male and a female, who are approximately 8-12 weeks old.

“Although it is heartbreaking circumstances that brought us these beautiful cats, we are happy to be able to provide a home, the care, and support that these animals will need to thrive as individuals and as a species,” said Michelle Furrer, Director of Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.

The male cub was orphaned after its mother, which was reportedly killing sheep, was shot and killed under a legal depredation permit.

In the state of California, a person who suffers property damage by mountain lions is entitled to obtain a depredation permit to protect their property.

The second cub, a female, was discovered after a property owner heard ‘chirps’ from what he believed to be a bird over a period of seven days. Puma cubs make a high-pitched ‘chirping’ sound when calling for their mother. The property owner reported the cub to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The cub was severely dehydrated, emaciated, covered in parasites and burrs.

“While we don’t know for sure what caused this female cub to become orphaned, we do know that one of the biggest threats to mountain lions in California is traffic, with 107 animals killed by automobiles in 2016 alone,” said Amy Gotliffe, director of conservation at Oakland Zoo.

In 10 months, five unrelated orphaned puma cubs have been rescued and brought to the Oakland Zoo by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Como Friends Board leadership, who are stepping down after many years of volunteering their time and talents, were given the opportunity to name the cubs. “Ruby” (female) symbolizes the red gemstone and a precious jewel and “Jasper” (male) represents a variety of quartz and a symbol of strength and treasure.

Before the cubs can be seen by the public, they will go through a 30-day quarantine period at Como Zoo. This is standard practice for all incoming animals to prevent passing on diseases, parasites, or illness to other animals.