Disney’s Animal Kingdom celebrates tiger cubs’ birth
A pair of endangered Sumatran tiger cubs have been born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom near Orlando, the company said — giving many people their cute animal fix for the day.
“We are absolutely delighted to share that Sohni, a Sumatran tiger in our care at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, recently gave birth to a pair of tiger cubs, the first in the park’s history,” Disney posted on its parks blog Wednesday.
“Sohni and her cubs are bonding well, and our dedicated team of animal care experts and veterinarians are focused on providing around-the-clock care for the tigers as they continue to monitor their progress. Guests can expect to see Sohni and her cubs on the Maharajah Jungle Trek within the next several months,” the blog also said.
More information on the cubs, which were born Thursday, was not immediately available, including their sex or their weight, because the animals are spending time with their mother. Disney said they would provide updates soon.
There are less than 500 Sumatran tigers in the wild, Disney wrote on its blog, as the species deals with significant threats, including habitat loss, poaching and the illegal wildlife trade.
The baby tigers were bred as part of the Species Survival Plan, which is overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Disney said.
The animals “are making an important contribution to the worldwide conversation and understanding of this critically endangered species,” said Dr. Mark Penning, vice president of animal science and environment for Disney Parks, in a statement.