In late December, the Hogle Zoo in Utah, USA, introduced Gaia, an eight-month-old black-footed cat, to its Small Animal Building. Despite her cute appearance, the feline is one of the deadliest creatures in the world.
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Black-footed cats are carnivores, preying on rodents, birds, reptiles, insects, and spiders. However, although these small but deadly felines may bite in self-defense, they do not attack humans.
“Her arrival marks an important step in the conservation of her species; with only 29 black-footed cats in the Consortium, successful breeding could significantly contribute to the program,” the zoo stated.
Black-footed cats resemble tabby cats but are named for having black or dark brown soles or pads on their feet.
The Hogle Zoo is home to a male black-footed cat named Ryder, whom they plan to introduce to Gaia in the future. “Gaia’s introduction to Ryder, the male black-footed cat, is in the cards, but we’ll let these two feline friends get acquainted when Gaia reaches maturity.”
Meet Gaia, the newest resident of the Small Animal Building! Gaia is an 8-month-old black-footed cat, and her arrival marks an important step in the conservation of her species. Read more about Gaia at https://t.co/YpmvVJWXIn pic.twitter.com/Y5RNj0e4HS
— Utah’s Hogle Zoo (@HogleZoo) January 4, 2024
