Houston, We Have a CUTE Problem—Zoo’s Adorable Jaguar Cub Rojo Steals Hearts of Staff!
Baby jaguar Rojo’s playful antics at the Houston Zoo captivate keepers before his big debut in Texas. 🌐 #News #HoustonTX #Texas #Animals
HOUSTON, TX – A tiny jaguar cub named Rojo is stirring up big excitement at the Houston Zoo in Texas, winning over staff with his boundless energy as he gears up for his first public appearance. Born in November, this three-month-old bundle of spots has been growing fast under the watchful gaze of his mother, Vida, and zookeepers say he’s almost ready to step into the spotlight.
A Star in the Making
The zoo recently released a video showing Vida tending to her rambunctious cub, who’s gone from a fragile 2.5 pounds at birth to a sturdy 20 pounds.
“Rojo and mom have been bonding behind the scenes where his strength and playful antics are capturing the hearts of his keepers as mom keeps a watchful eye on him at all times,” the zoo stated.
The frisky feline has been spotted climbing, exploring his surroundings, and peering curiously at his father, Tesoro, from afar.
Family Ties and a Winning Name
While visitors can’t yet meet this prowling prince or his protective momma Vida, they can catch a glimpse of proud papa Tesoro in the South America’s Pantanal exhibit, located near the giant river otters.
The cub’s fiery name, Rojo—Spanish for “red”—came courtesy of the Ames Family, who snagged naming rights with a top bid at the Zoo Ball auction, a dazzling event backed by Phillips 66.
Conservation in Action
Rojo’s arrival marks a win for the Houston Zoo’s role in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) Program, aimed at bolstering jaguar numbers.
Vida and Tesoro, the cub’s parents, aren’t just raising a family—they’re spotlighting the plight of their wild counterparts, threatened by poaching and shrinking forests.
The zoo also funnels part of every ticket and membership into Projeto Ariranhas, a Brazilian initiative training tour guides to ensure jaguars and humans thrive side by side.
With his debut on the horizon, this spirited sprout promises to pounce into visitors’ hearts soon—watch out, Houston!
RELATED TOPICS: Animals | Heartwarming News | Texas
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
