APPLE VALLEY, Minn. (AP) — Two rare Amur tiger cubs have made their first public appearance at the Minnesota Zoo, bringing hope for the future of this endangered species that is found in far eastern Russia and northern China.
The cubs, named Andrei and Amaliya, enjoyed their first time outside on Wednesday, feeling the grass under their paws for the first time since their mother, Dari, gave birth on May 23.
“They have been doing very well since their arrival,” said zoologist Trista Fischer. “We’ve kept a close eye on them. Dari has been an exceptional mother and has taken great care of them. Now, they are fully vaccinated and weigh between 40 and 45 pounds (18-20 kilograms).”
Scientists believe there are only around 400 to 500 Amur tigers left in the wild. These majestic animals were nearly extinct in the 1930s and 1940s but have seen some recovery since then. However, breeding them is challenging, and statistical data shows that about 25% of Amur tiger cubs do not reach adulthood, whether in the wild or in captivity. Poaching further threatens their survival.
The Minnesota Zoo, located in Apple Valley near Minneapolis, has a strong record in tiger conservation. Over its history, the zoo’s Amur tigers have welcomed 57 cubs, with 46 surviving beyond the first 30 days. Of these 46 cubs, 21 have successfully bred, resulting in an additional 86 cubs. The arrival of Andrei and Amaliya has increased the zoo’s Amur tiger population to seven, including their father, Luka.
Fischer is the lead coordinator for the Tiger Species Survival Plan, a breeding initiative in the United States, also working with facilities in other countries to ensure the survival of big cats globally. This plan oversees three tiger groups: Sumatran, Malayan, and Amur.
“This litter holds significant value for the current population,” she explained, noting that the genetic diversity from healthy tigers in human care can eventually help support wild populations.
Zoo spokesperson Zach Nugent stated that the cubs will stay with their mother for about 18 months before Andrei, the male cub, is moved to a separate area, similar to when a male cub in the wild starts to explore independently. Amaliya, the female, might remain with Dari a little longer, up to 24 months. Afterwards, Fischer will decide if either cub should be bred and potentially moved to another accredited zoo, which usually occurs after they turn 2 years old.
“I just love when they start to get their little Yoda ears,” Fischer said, referring to the pointed ears of the character from Star Wars, as she watched Andrei and Amaliya explore their new surroundings. She shared that it was an emotional and proud moment for her and her team.
“Our work isn’t finished, but all the effort so far has really paid off in how well the cubs are adjusting to their new environment. They are showing amazing resilience, which is something we strive for in their care. We want these animals to feel confident and adapt easily to new surroundings, just like they are doing now,” she said, observing the little tigers as they roamed outside with their mother.
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Karnowski reported from Minneapolis.
