2 rare clouded leopard cubs born at zoo in Va.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Two rare and endangered clouded leopard cubs are being taken care of at a National Zoo facility in northern Virginia.

The whiskered cubs were born Tuesday, the first such births there in 16 years. Zoo officials say breeding the animals is a challenge because when a pair are put together to mate, the male often kills the female. Mothers also often accidentally or intentionally kill their cubs.

In this case, the cubs were quickly removed from their mother after birth.

Clouded leopards are native to Southeast Asia, but are vulnerable to extinction because of hunting and deforestation. They weigh about a half pound when born and grow to as much as 50 pounds. Their tails account for half of their length.

The new cubs will not be on public display.

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