Sumatran tiger cub triplets celebrate their first birthday
A trio of tiger cubs at ZSL London Zoo are celebrating their first birthday and have been treated to some rather big presents by their keepers.
Sumatran tiger triplets Nakal, Budi and Cina woke up yesterday (Wednesday 4) to find some specially-decorated giant boxes dotted around their enclosure, with meaty treats hidden inside to stimulate their natural stalking and prowling behaviours.
Born to mum, Malati and dad, Jae Jae, the cubs represent a wild population of just 300 individuals and are a classed as critically endangered by the ICUN.
The species is threatened by habitat loss from illegal and commercial logging, poaching for domestic and international markets, and the depletion of prey from human hunting.
ZSL London Zoo, part of the international conservation charity, the Zoological Society of London, coordinates both the European and global breeding programme for the sub-species, using the studbook to match with potential mates and ensure their future survival.
Image © Tony Bates
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