Sand cats are typically found in desert environments, but visitors to the Ross Park Zoo can see three new kittens born to parents Kya and Amal.

Amal came to Ross Park in October of 2020 from the Hogle Zoo in Utah and was joined by Kya from California's The Living Desert a month later. 

Born in February, the kittens are just over a month old. Executive Director Phillip Ginter says the first two weeks are critical as sand cats have a high infant mortality rate. But the babies and their parents are doing well. They have opened their eyes, are putting on weight and have even hissed at zoo staff. 

"We were fortunate enough to have the space to house not only the adult pair, but had adequate space to be able to house any offspring," said Ginter. 

While the kittens have started exploring the habitat, mom is keeping them close by so you may only catch of glimpse of them until they grow some more. 

The babies don't have names yet, but the zoo will do a naming contest. In the coming weeks, they will release a list the public can vote on. 

For now, you can visit the kittens during normal zoo hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day with the last admission at 3 p.m. March is pay what you can month. 

If you're planning a trip next month, Breakfast with a Bunny and Eggstravaganza are on April 7 and 8. You can find more information at rossparkzoo.org/events.