The name of Chester Zoo's first ever snow leopard cub has been revealed.

A rare snow leopard cub, the first to be born at Chester Zoo in its 94-year history, has now taken her first steps outside.

Following thousands of public suggestions, conservationists have chosen the name Bheri for the cub - a fitting nod to the mountain origins of the species.

"Bheri" was named after a river in Nepal that runs through the Himalayas, a fitting tribute to the rugged, high-altitude landscapes where snow leopards roam.

With as few as 4,000 snow leopards estimated to remain in the wild, the species is increasingly under threat from habitat loss, climate change, poaching and conflict with humans.

Often referred to as the "ghosts of the mountains", they are known for their elusive nature and ability to thrive in some of the world's harshest terrain.

Born to first-time parents Nubra and Yashin, the ten-week-old cub spent her early weeks snuggled away in a secluded den with mum.

Now, for the first time, the female cub has ventured out to explore the zoo's Himalayan habitat, with zookeepers sharing images of her big moment.

"She is already so full of confidence and character as she playfully explores her new surroundings," said Rachael Boatwright, assistant team manager of carnivores at Chester Zoo.

"We were overwhelmed by the volume of name suggestions we received.

"In the end, we decided to honour the cub's wild mountain roots, where our teams work closely with the Snow Leopard Trust to protect this species in the wild.

"We feel that, naming her Bheri is a fitting tribute to that important work."

Chester Zoo is also working alongside the Snow Leopard Trust and communities in Kyrgyzstan to reduce human-wildlife conflict, protect vital habitats and support sustainable livelihoods that benefit both people and wildlife.