Endangered tiger gives birth to ‘vocal’ first cub at California zoo. See them bond

San Diego Zoo is rejoicing in the birth of an endangered tiger.

The cub was born Aug. 23 to Sumatran tiger and first-time mom, Jillian, the zoo said in a news release.

“We are thrilled at the birth of this very special tiger cub at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park,” said Lisa Peterson, senior vice president and executive director at the zoo.

Motherhood instincts kicked in, the zoo said, as zookeepers watched Jillian immediately be tender and nurturing toward her newborn.

“It has been a joy for them to watch her enjoy motherhood,” Peterson said.

A photo released by the zoo shows the little one relaxing next to Jillian.

“The cub has shown attachment to Jillian and has been very active and vocal as they explore and grow.”

The baby represents the expansion of a threatened species’ gene pool. Sumatran tigers are critically endangered with only 400-600 remaining in the wild. The greatest hazards to their population are loss of habitat and poaching.

“We hope this cub will allow our guests to gain a greater understanding of this incredibly special species and the importance of conserving their natural habitats.”

Sumatran tigers are native to the Indonesian island of Sumatra, according to National Geographic. They are the smallest of all tigers but can still reach 8 feet and 260 pounds.

“People can help protect tigers by avoiding products made with non-sustainable palm oil, an industry that harms tiger habitats, and by refusing to purchase items made from endangered wildlife,” the zoo said.

The currently unnamed cub will spend the next several weeks alone in the den with mama Jillian, before eventually venturing out into the zoo’s outdoor habitat.

This story was originally published September 6, 2024 at 9:54 AM with the headline "Endangered tiger gives birth to ‘vocal’ first cub at California zoo. See them bond."