Endangered Sumatran Tiger Gives Birth to Trio of Cubs at Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo’s Sumatran tiger Kartika, a first-time mum, gave birth to three cubs on January 17, according to the zoo.

The zoo said in a media release: “The cubs are yet to be named, given that Kartika is still very protective.”

Keepers were thrilled when the two females and a male cub were born on January 17 between 8am and 9:46am. The cubs first opened their eyes on January 29 and are said to be growing well and suckling for milk.

There are fewer than 350 Sumatran tigers left in the wild and the birth has been hailed as an “incredible success” by keepers, after Kartika was matched with a male named Clarence in October 2018.

This footage shows the birth of a cub, as well as Kartika bonding with her cubs. Credit: Taronga Zoo via Storyful