MN Zoo Welcomes New Tiger Cubs

APPLE VALLEY, MN — The Minnesota Zoo announced Thursday the birth of four Amur tiger cubs. The cubs were born on Mother's Day, the Zoo said.

Out of the four cubs, only three survived, according to Minnesota Zoo. The surviving cubs will stay behind scenes and bond with their mother, Sundari, the Zoo said.

The father of the cubs was Putin, an Amur tiger who died a few months ago, the Zoo said.

“These cubs represent a major, positive step forward in our efforts to support the
global population of Amur tigers,” Minnesota Zoo Director John Frawley said.
“Having three thriving cubs, and a mother who is successfully raising them, is a true
testament to the care and dedication provided by our incredible team of
zookeepers and veterinary staff.”

The Zoo, which has an extensive tiger conservation program, also recently received an older cub named Luka.

“Amur tigers are among the most endangered animals in the world,” Dr. Seth
Stapleton, Minnesota Zoo Director of Conservation, said. “Their numbers have declined
dramatically over the last decades as a result of habitat loss, poaching, loss of prey,
and other factors, which is why the role of zoos in tiger conservation is so crucial.”