COMMUNITY
A uniting cause We speak to two supporters who have adopted our Snow Leopard family at Melbourne Zoo. WORDS Kate
Schmitt
IMAGE
Alex Storer
JANE PONTING Jane Ponting lives on Raymond Island, home to a thriving koala population and more than 130 species of native birds. But her favourite animal, the Snow Leopard, prowls mountain ranges on the other side of the world. Jane became interested in Snow Leopards in the 1990s — a time when both Melbourne Zoo and the numbers of wild Snow Leopards were very different from today. In 1997, Jane’s partner Tom gave her a portrait of Shimbu, Melbourne Zoo’s eight-year-old Snow Leopard (who has since passed away). The painting still hangs above Jane’s bed. “Shimbu was an idiosyncratic animal,” says Jane. “She had a bad temper, a huge ego and the most incredible spirit – Shimbu had a style of her own.” More recently, Jane experienced a special behind-the-scenes encounter with Miska, Melbourne Zoo’s four-year-old Snow Leopard. “It was the best birthday present I’ve ever had.” Jane has read widely about the Snow Leopard, prompting a lot of soul searching about endangered animals and how she can play her part. “I believe we have a responsibility to contribute in a small way, to look after wild animals everywhere. I’m fortunate that I’m in a position where I can support a vulnerable animal and contribute in a small way.”
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