Pallas Cat
Otocolobus manul
Here at Banham Zoo
At Banham Zoo, we are home to two Pallas' cats, Khal and Kulki. You'll often spot them roaming and climbing around their outdoor habitat, particularly loafing on the top branches.
They have extremely long, thick fur, helping them survive the cold climates they inhabit. They are so well adapted to their environment that the fur on their underbelly is nearly twice as long as the rest perfect for keeping warm while travelling through thick snow.
Where Do I Live?
Central Asia
Pallas cats inhabit a large area of central Asia. They are well adapted to cold and arid environments, as they live on rocky steppes at high altitudes of over 4,000 feet.
What Do I Eat?
Pallas cats are carnivores feeding mainly on rodents, birds and insects. As well as chasing, they will also wait outside dens to ambush their prey.
How Do I Breed?
After a pregnancy of around ten weeks, a litter of two to eight kittens are born. At around two months old, the young moult their juvenile coats and grow long adult fur.
Together, we protect wildlife
Conservation status
Least Concern (LC)
Lowest risk of endangerment.
Although not classed as endangered, numbers of Pallas cats are believed to be decreasing in the wild, and populations are very fragmented.
Some Helpful Links
Where is the
Pallas Cat
located?
Our
Pallas Cat
is located in our
Cat Zone
, map reference
2
.
What’s the best time to see the animals?
The best time to see our animals is often during feeding times or in the cooler parts of the day when they are most active. Check our daily timetable for keeper talks and feeding sessions for an up-close look! Our habitat signage also includes helpful hints and tips to make the most of your visit.
How do you ensure the animals' welfare?
Animal welfare is our top priority. We provide species-specific habitats, enrichment activities, and expert veterinary care to ensure all our animals thrive.
