
Louisville Zoo Welcomes Sumatran Tiger Cub; First in 20 Years
The Louisville Zoo just announced a new member of the Sumatran Tiger family. This bouncing striped baby was born July 23rd to proud parents, Jingga, a 14-year-old female, and Kami Sambal, a 16-year-old male.
Unfortunately tigers like Jingga, Kami, and their newborn are considered critically endangered. Their island habitats are disappearing and they are vulnerable to poaching. Conservationists estimate that less than 400 Sumatran tigers remain in the wild. That's why it's so important for them to be in safe places like the Louisville Zoo where they can be taken care of.
Also, where they can reproduce and Mama and baby are looked after to stay healthy and happy. Jingga's offspring marks the first cub born at the Louisville Zoo in twenty years! So this is an exciting event. As you can imagine, a lot went into planning this birth so it could be as controlled yet natural as possible.
While the new tiger cub is not ready for visitors just yet, there are a couple of ways zoo officials invite you to celebrate the momentous occasion. You can follow the Louisville Zoo Facebook page and participate in the naming contest.
You can also visit the Louisville Zoo website for information on "adopting" the cub and to watch the livestream as the baby plays, sleeps, grows. I swear, there is nothing cuter than a kitten no matter the species! Jingga and baby are under the care of the Islands and Animal Health team who say they are both doing great.
"Both mother and cub are doing exceptionally well, with Jingga displaying all the nurturing behaviors of an experienced mother, including grooming, nursing, and carrying her newborn.
Currently, the cub is bonding with Jingga behind the scenes. Stay tuned to our official channels and website for updates on when you can see the cub in person. In the meantime, follow the cub’s early moments via our Tiger Cub Cam below."
For your viewing pleasure! Here is the link to the Louisville Zoo Cub Cam livestream. Don't worry if you don't see Jinnga. She takes short breaks outside while still keeping a close eye on her cub. She spends a lot of time nursing and cleaning the baby. It's wild to see how she is so big and strong, yet so gentle. Even when she picks the little cub up into her big ole chompers, she's very careful. I know what I'll be obsessed with watching for the next week!

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