ST. LOUIS – The Saint Louis Zoo is now caring for a female bobcat kitten that had been illegally kept as a household pet.
The zoo announced the arrival of the young bobcat, named Lyla, on Friday. Because she was raised as a pet for some time, she can no longer survive on her own in the wild. Therefore, she will remain in the care of the Saint Louis Zoo.
“Bobcats like Lyla are native to Missouri and can be easily confused with housecats. Remember: Wild animals are not pets. This species has complex needs that cannot be met in a home,” said the Saint Louis Zoo via Facebook.
Lyla is currently settling in behind the scenes, receiving care from the zoo’s professional keepers. She is expected make her public debut next year as part of the zoo’s ambassador animal team…