Two Extremely Rare Sumatran Tiger Cubs Born At ZSL London Zoo

ZSL London Zoo recently announced the birth of two extremely rare Sumatran tiger cubs. The zoo keepers were able to capture the cubs first moments courtesy of some hidden cameras. So far the zoo has not been able to determine the sex of the cubs who were born to a Sumatran tigress named Melati at the end of last month following a pregnancy lasting 108 days. The zoo carefully watched the pregnant tigress and when she finally went into labour, they were able to monitor the births through a remote camera which they have dubbed cubcam. The cubs have not yet opened their eyes and are still firmly ensconced with their mother inside a special cubbing den.

Assistant curator of mammals Teague Stubbington said: “We’re overjoyed with our new arrivals, and with how Melati is responding to her two cubs. The cubcam allows us to observe the youngsters 24/7 while not disturbing mum or dad at all, which is ideal while they get to know their babies. One of us is always on duty to keep an eye on the little ones throughout the night. Dad Jae Jae has also been spotted taking a peek at his new-borns!”

Critically endangered

It is estimated that there are less than 300 Sumatran tigers left in the wild which means the cubs are an incredible addition to the global breeding programme for the species which is listed as being critically endangered.

ZSL works in Indonesia to protect wild Sumatran tigers, and country manager Andjar Rafiastanto said: “This is exciting news for the Sumatran tiger, a flagship species for the ZSL conservation programme in Indonesia. ZSL has been in Sumatra for more than 14 years, working with our government counterparts to increase the protection of Sumatran tigers. The birth of these two tiger cubs brings us hope for their long-term survival.”

Currently mother Melati and her cubs are not on display, however visitors to ZSL London Zoo are still able to capture a glimpse of the eight year old father Jae Jae.