Columbus Zoo welcomes new kittens

POWELL, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has welcomed a new litter of a near-threatened cat species. Two new Pallas' cats were born on July 3 to Tiina and Moose in the zoo's Asia Quest region. It is Tiina and Moose's second litter. The species is known for its long, thick grey coat, [...]

POWELL, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has welcomed a new litter of a near-threatened cat species.

Two new Pallas' cats were born on July 3 to Tiina and Moose in the zoo's Asia Quest region. It is Tiina and Moose's second litter.

The species is known for its long, thick grey coat, flat head with short ears, and is native to central Asia. When they were first discovered, some mistook them for wild ancestors of domestic Persian cats because they looked so much alike, the zoo said on its website.

The kittens and Tiina are spending time bonding behind the scenes at the zoo, and the kittens won't be viewable to guests for about six weeks, the zoo said. Moose, however, is accepting guests. When the kittens emerge from their den, they should have their full adult coat, according to the zoo.

On its Facebook page, the zoo called the litter "a joyous occasion and a 'win' for the conservation of this beautiful species."