We got to the forest office this morning to find the smaller cub barely alive, in fact to touch, well, I thought he was dead. Unlike Asa, who you can see me checking here and is definitely a leopard, the smaller cat is a smaller breed of wild cat, ID unknown at this stage.
I massaged the smaller cat for over two hours and he struggled back to life. He took droplets of milk from my hand and is relatively stable now. I will post more images when I know both cats will live. I'm reasonably confident re Asa but we need to build an enclosure, and quickly. The officer in charge agreed but the permission process here can take time. However, I'm sure it will happen and this is what those of you who are helping will help fund but for now, medical expenses and food need to be paid for.
Asa is incredibly beautiful and we have bonded in the small amount of time. Krishna is trying his best to get local support, he has good contacts. Edward, an Australian from Melbourne is giving practical support which I am grateful for. It is vital that the locals see foreigners are interested, want to see the right thing done.
Kathmandu Zoo cannot take Asa. Asa, which as I explained yesterday means Hope, will have to stay here in Pokhara and I cannot help but feel will play a vital role in everything we are trying to do here. Strange as it may sound this incredible little animal is playing a part in the ultimate goal of getting UNESCO status for the Annapurna Conservation Area.
It looks like I am going to be spending the night with these two cats in an attempt to keep them warm. I hope I can give you a positive report tomorrow. I'm a researcher, I deal with data but it is impossible not to get emotionally involved in a situation like this.
For those who want to help go to www.wildtiger.org/wildtigerjournal4Feb2014
Cheers Jack.
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