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Happy Birthday, Meryl! Betty White Adopts Snow Leopard In Streep's Name

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — Meryl Streep got an early birthday present Tuesday, wrapped in snowy white fur.

Actress Betty White adopted a snow leopard cub at the Los Angeles Zoo in Streep's name. The Oscar winner turns 63 on Friday.

"Meryl Streep is such a wonderful woman who has given so much to our generation and we wanted to give her a gift as unique and rare as she is," said White, a member of the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association's board. "We know she will fall in love with out snow leopard, just like we did."

The adoption was made in conjunction with The Lifeline Program through GLAZA's "Adopt an Animal Program," which applies adoption fees to
international conservation programs.

In April, White and The Lifeline Program adopted a Malayan gharial crocodile at the zoo in the name of Elton John, whose many hits include
"Crocodile Rock."

(©2012 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

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