Great Plains Zoo confirm big cats clear of COVID-19, snow leopard death caused by virus

The big cats will be back on display at the Great Plains Zoo in Sioux Falls after a snow leopard was confirmed to have died of COVID-19.

The big cats, including tigers and snow leopards, at the Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History have tested negative for the virus that causes COVID-19 on two consecutive PCR lab tests and will return to their exhibits to be viewed by the public on Wednesday, according to a press release by the zoo.

On Oct. 6, the zoo reported that one Amur Tiger, Keesa, tested positive for COVID-19. Shortly after, other big cats at the zoo began exhibiting similar symptoms, the release said.

Prior reporting: Following snow leopard's death, Great Plains Zoo expects to receive another one for breeding program.

On Oct. 7, snow leopard, Baya, died of a respiratory illness. It was unknown at the time if COVID-19 was the cause of death.

Necropsy results on Baya later confirmed she had died from pneumonia induced by the COVID-19 virus, and she did not have any other underlying condition, according to the release.

The zoo’s veterinary staff has run consistent lab tests on the big cats throughout their illness, checking samples for signs of viral shedding. Lab tests confirm all of the zoo’s big cat collection is clear of the virus and can once again be in the exhibit space and viewable to the public, according to the release.

“While we still grieve the loss of Baya, we are grateful for the other big cats to recover successfully from their COVID-19 infections. As representatives to their wild counterparts, these animals help promote appreciation and conservation of their species,” said Great Plains Zoo CEO, Becky Dewitz, in the news release.

As the animals return to their displays, the zoo continues to keep PPE requirements in place for all staff interacting with COVID-19 susceptible species, including N95 masks, gloves, booties, and face shields, according to the release.

“We ask our visitors to continue being proactive on social distancing and please stay home if you are not feeling well,” Dewitz said.

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This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Great Plains Zoo tigers, snow leopards cleared of COVID-19