The San Diego Zoo is celebrating the arrival of a rare Sumatran tiger cub, a critically endangered subspecies with an estimated 600 individuals remaining in the wild, give or take a third.
Born on August 23rd to first-time mother Jillian, this cub marks a significant milestone in the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s ongoing efforts to conserve the Sumatran tiger. The zoo’s wildlife care specialists are keeping a close eye on Jillian and her cub, noting that she has embraced motherhood with all the correct maternal instincts.
The young tiger has shown a strong bond with Jillian and is already active and vocal as they both begin to explore their new world together.
“We are overjoyed with the birth of this special tiger cub at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park,” said Lisa Peterson, Senior Vice President and Executive Director. “This event not only enriches the gene pool of the Sumatran tiger population but also contributes to the genetic diversity and overall health of the species.”
Jillian’s dedicated care team has been vigilant throughout the process, and they’ve been delighted to watch her thrive in her new role as a mother. Peterson added, “We hope that this cub will help our visitors understand the critical importance of conserving such an extraordinary species and the habitats they rely on.”
This birth comes from a breeding recommendation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Sumatran Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP), which aims to maintain genetically healthy and sustainable populations of endangered species across the country.
Sumatran tigers are the smallest of all tiger subspecies and face severe threats, being the last remaining tigers in the Sunda Islands after the extinction of the Bali, Bornean, and Javan tigers—though some speculate the Javan tiger may still exist.
Tigers face numerous threats, including habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflicts, and poaching. People can help by avoiding products made with unsustainable palm oil, a major contributor to habitat loss, and steering clear of items made from endangered wildlife.
Jillian and her cub will remain in their den for several weeks to allow for bonding and crucial learning. Once Jillian feels ready, she will introduce her cub to a specially designed maternity habitat.
As of 2013, 375 Sumatran tigers resided in zoos globally, contributing to the long-term survival of the species. Indonesian conservationists view the survival of these tigers as vital to maintaining the health of ecosystems on their largest islands, including Sumatra, Java, Bali, and Borneo, where these big cats once roamed freely.