Absolutely gutted to learn of the loss of this precious creature. I love pretty much all cats, but anyone who knows me has heard me say that I thought Ena was probably the most beautiful animal I had ever seen. The character and soul in those stunning eyes is something I will remember for the rest of my life. In particular, she was an amazing first-time mother. I spent many, *many* happy (and cold) days watching her frolic with her cubs, keeping up with their energy at every turn. The first photo in this set is of Ena a few days before the cubs were born; look at the huge bulge around her middle! I’ve been incredibly honoured to have met Ena up close and in person on more than one occasion (Wild Encounters and one very memorable Keeper for a Day experience) and that kind of intimate connection with an animal this beautiful and intelligent changes your life for the better. And I know we had a connection, because the second photo here was taken on a day when her cubs were sleeping in the corner of the exhibit (you should just be able to make them out on the right), and when she saw me close to the fence and watching them, she sauntered over, yawned, and lay down for a nap with her belly exposed to me, exhibiting absolute calm and trust. That was remarkable to me, and I never took it for granted. Thinking today of her #1 fan, Jenn (her main Keeper), who I can only imagine must be devastated by this. Sending her – and *everyone* who loved this glorious creature – strength and light. A huge loss. She’ll be so very much missed. #Ena #SnowLeopard #GhostCat #catsofinstagram #leopardsofinstagram #snowleopardsofinstagram (at The Toronto Zoo) https://www.instagram.com/p/CVn2F-HJCl5jNvrPAObIIhkzP07ehl-iOM7M-k0/?utm_medium=tumblr
