Banham Zoo snow leopard Enif dies aged 18
She'd been a familiar site at Banham since she arrived in 2006
Banham Zoo has announced the death of its snow leopard, Enif, at the age of 18.
Zoo staff say they took the decision to put her to sleep, as she was losing her vision in her left eye.
Enif had already lost her right eye in 2019 due to an issue with reoccuring ulcers.
Enif had been a familiar site at the zoo since 2006, when she was brought to Norfolk from the Tama Zoological Park in Tokyo.
She lived with partner Rocky and produced several cubs. Rocky passed away last year.
In a statement on social media, zoo bosses wrote: "Over the last 17 years, Enif has graced Banham Zoo with her elegance and majestic nature, and she will be deeply missed by the keepers and the wider Banham Zoo team."
"Since the passing of Rocky last year, we have actively been working with the Endangered Species Programme (EEP) to source a new male for Banham Zoo as we pledge to continue our involvement in the vital breeding programme for snow leopards.
"We are incredibly sad that Enif will not get to meet our new male, but we will continue to support snow leopard conservation and we will never forget the incredible contribution Enif made to the survival of her species.
"We would love to see your photos and stories remembering our beautiful Enif below, and we thank you for your support at this time."