Currently, the newborn is behind the scenes bonding with mom. Plans for public viewing will be announced via the Zoo’s official channels and website soon. Guests are invited to follow updates and watch the tiger cub’s first weeks by viewing our Tiger Cub Cam at louisvillezoo.org/cubcam.

The last Sumatran tiger cubs born at the Zoo were Leela, Jai, and Mohan in April 2004, followed by two Amur, or Siberian tiger cubs, Irisa and Anya, in October of the same year.

"It’s been a long time since the Zoo has welcomed a tiger cub to our extended family and we are all excited by the arrival of this rare and endangered youngster," said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. "I commend the Islands and Animal Health teams for their efforts and invite our community to come celebrate with us as we watch this precious cub grow and progress."

A naming contest sponsored by Norton Children’s will be announced in the coming weeks. 

Guests can also “adopt” the tiger cub through a special ADOPTS package which includes a mom and cub plushie, an adoption certificate, the adopter’s name listed on the Zoo’s website, a colorful Zoo magnet and two admission passes to visit to the Louisville Zoo — all for $99. Visit louisvillezoo.org/adopts for more information and to purchase.

About Sumatran Tigers

Sumatran Tigers, the last of the island tiger subspecies, are smaller than mainland tigers and are critically endangered. Fewer than 400 individuals are estimated to still survive in the wild.  Found only on Sumatra, their habitat is threatened primarily by development for palm oil plantations. Palm oil is found in hundreds of foods, cosmetics and cleaning products. As worldwide demand for palm oil accelerates, so does the loss of vital tropical forest lands. These lands are home to thousands of unique plant and animal species. Choosing palm-oil free products and those containing sustainably grown palm oil helps preserve and protect wildlife and wild places.