WALES’ FIRST TIGER CUB

9th July 2024

Manor Wildlife Park is thrilled to announce the birth of a Sumatran tiger cub, named Zaza, marking a momentous occasion as the first tiger cub to be born in a zoo in Wales. Born on the 25th of May, Zaza is a symbol of hope and a critical addition to the global effort to conserve this critically endangered species.

The birth of Zaza represents a significant milestone not only for Manor Wildlife Park but also for wildlife conservation in Wales. The Sumatran tiger, one of the world's most endangered tiger subspecies, faces severe threats from habitat loss and poaching. Zaza's arrival brings renewed focus to the importance of protecting these majestic creatures and their natural habitats.

Rick Newton, the Animal Manager at Manor Wildlife Park, expressed his excitement and pride, saying, "We are overjoyed to welcome Zaza to our family. This birth is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team, who have worked tirelessly to create an environment where these magnificent animals can thrive. Zaza's arrival is a beacon of hope for the conservation of Sumatran tigers, and we are committed to ensuring she grows up healthy and strong."

The birth was monitored closely by the park's veterinary and animal care teams to ensure both mother and cub received the best possible care. Zaza has been thriving under the watchful eye of her mother, Terima, and the two have been bonding beautifully since the birth.

Visitors to Manor Wildlife Park will now have the opportunity to see Zaza as she begins to venture out of her den and explore her surroundings. The cub will be viewable to the public during regular park hours, allowing visitors to witness this historic moment and learn more about the park’s ongoing conservation efforts to protect Sumatran tigers.

The park’s conservation programme is dedicated to supporting global efforts to preserve endangered species through breeding initiatives, habitat conservation, and public education. Zaza's birth is a hopeful reminder of the impact that dedicated conservation work can have on preserving our planet's wildlife.

MEET JAYA AND TERIMA 

Manor wildlife park is currently part of the Sumatran tiger European breeding programme, working to safeguard the future of the most enigmatic of species. The park holds one male, Jaya who joined the park from Chester Zoo in 2016 and Terima, a female who arrived from Beauval Zoological Park, France in 2015.

• VITAL STATISTICS

Body length – 1.5 - 2.4m

Weight 70 - 120kgs

Gestation – 103 days

• DISTRIBUTION & HABITAT

The Sumatran Tiger is native to the Island of Sumatra in Indonesia. Their preferred habitat is the dense forests of the lowlands and highlands.

• THREATS

Numbers have plummeted in their native Sumatra due to habitat loss and deforestation caused by increased logging and the agriculture – especially from palm oil plantations. Illegal hunting is also a problem as these animals are revered for their skins and seen as a threat to livestock.

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