MEET Newborn 21 days old, 4 Amur tiger with mom at Whipsnade zoo
On Saturday, 23 June, a significant and heartwarming event took place: the birth of a litter of cubs to Naya, a seven-year-old Amur tigress. This joyful occasion came after a gestation period of 108 days and marked a hopeful step forward in the conservation of one of the world's most endangered big cat species. The cubs arrived exactly 121 days after Naya was first introduced to the father, Botzman, a genetically valuable male Amur tiger selected to help support the global breeding program for this species.
The birth is particularly important because Amur tigers — also known as Siberian tigers — are critically endangered, with only a few hundred individuals remaining in the wild. Breeding programs in zoos and conservation centers play a crucial role in ensuring their survival, and the birth of these cubs is a testament to the careful planning and dedication of the conservation team.
Naya, already known for her calm and attentive nature, has taken to motherhood impressively well. Keepers report that she is nursing and caring for the cubs attentively, keeping them nestled in the den and responding to their every movement and sound. This early bonding period is vital for the cubs’ health and future development.
Botzman, although kept separate for safety reasons, has contributed valuable genetic diversity to the breeding program. His pairing with Naya was part of a carefully managed plan to maintain a healthy captive population, ensuring that future generations of Amur tigers are robust and genetically strong.
As the cubs grow, they will be closely monitored by staff and veterinarians. Their development will offer not only joy to visitors but also hope for the future of the Amur tiger species — a symbol of the wild that still deserves its place in the natural world.

Comments
Post a Comment