10/29/2025
It's National Cat Day! Pandora, our bobcat, came to us after she as mistaken for a housecat by a concerned citizen.
When bobcats are kittens, they look strikingly similar to a domestic housecat. Someone found her outside alone, took her in, and cared for her like a pet. Unfortunately, by the time they realized her true species, Pandora was used to being fed and provided for by humans. She was deemed unreleasable to the wild, and thus began her journey to come and live at Zoo New York!
Her story is a perfect reminder of why it's important to both understand and respect native wildlife. Even people with the best intentions can make mistakes if they aren't educated on our native species!
At Zoo New York, our mission is education, conservation, and adventure! We want you to learn from our incredible animals and have fun doing it.
Q&A about Pandora:
Q: Why is she alone?
A: Bobcats are solitary unless breeding, meaning she would very likely NOT be pleased with a roommate.
Q: I've been by her habitat and I didn't see her - why?
A: She has access to her private "holding" area whenever she pleases. If you don't see her in her habitat, she is likely taking a break from the public to get some rest.
Q: How long do bobcats live?
A: Bobcats have an average life expectancy of 7-10 years. Pandora was born at the end of 2013, making her 12 years old! She is healthy and spry, so we are hopeful that she will be with us for many more years.
Q: What is she doing in the photo?
A: During mealtimes, Pandora likes to play with her food. Here, zookeeper Erica was throwing cubes of chicken around her habitat for her to catch, find, or chase. If you put a piece of meat high up on the perimeter of her habitat, she will leap and climb to get it!
Q: Who sponsors Pandora's habitat?
A: Our generous friends at FABCO!
