A snow leopard has died at a Scots wildlife park after catching a highly infectious disease.
The Highland Wildlife Park in Kincraig was forced to put male snow leopard Chan to sleep after he showed symptoms of feline herpesvirus (FHV).
FHV is a high infectious illness that is one of the major causes of upper respiratory infections or cat flu in cats.
Once infected, big cats effectively become life-long carriers of the virus.
This meant although Chan only displayed mild symptoms, the leopard threatened the health of his cubs and female mate.
Devastated animal keepers made the 'difficult decision' to put him to sleep and 'prevent future suffering'.
The Highland Wildlife Park said: "We are sad to say our male snow leopard Chan has been put to sleep under veterinary advice.
"Chan had feline herpesvirus (FHV) and after exhausting all alternatives, we took the very difficult decision to put him to sleep to prevent future suffering.
"While Chan’s symptoms were not yet severe, they were worsening.
"The condition also posed a significant risk to Chan’s family and all of the other cats living at Highland Wildlife Park, including our Amur tiger, lynx, and wildcats.
"He will be missed, and our thoughts are with everyone who worked with him.
"Chan arrived at the park in 2015 where he was paired with female Animesh and the couple had their first cubs last year.
"Mum and cubs Leannain and Stardust are doing well."
