Berlin Zoo Invites Public to Name Newly Born Sumatran Tiger Cub
The Berlin Zoo has announced the birth of a female Sumatran tiger cub, marking a significant addition to its ongoing conservation efforts for this critically endangered species. The cub was born in early January to resident tigers Mayang and Jae Jae. With the animal now thriving and its gender confirmed, zoo officials are inviting visitors and the broader community to participate in selecting a name for the young tiger.
In a move to strengthen the animal's connection to its birthplace, the zoo is encouraging suggestions that reflect Berlin's culture or history. Visitors can submit their name proposals by placing them in a dedicated suggestion box located inside the rainforest house, adjacent to the indoor enclosure where the cub and her mother reside. Submissions are being accepted until the end of February. Following this period, a jury comprised of zoo representatives will review the entries and select the most fitting name.
Alongside the naming initiative, the zoo is also seeking a sponsor for the cub. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the zoo via email for details regarding the sponsorship process. This initiative aims to promote public engagement and raise awareness for the conservation of Sumatran tigers, whose numbers continue to dwindle in the wild.
The birth of the cub is part of a longstanding breeding program at Berlin Zoo, which has seen more than 150 Sumatran tiger cubs born since the mid-1950s. The young cub is the latest offspring of Mayang and Jae Jae, who previously welcomed other cubs in recent years, including Luise and Lotte in 2022 and twins Ede and Kuno in 2024. The zoo's ongoing efforts contribute to international initiatives focused on preserving the Sumatran tiger, a species native exclusively to the Indonesian island of Sumatra and classified as critically endangered by conservation authorities.
According to zoo officials, visitors now have the opportunity to view the cub alongside her mother in the indoor enclosure. The cub is reported to be in good health and is already capturing the attention of zoo visitors with her active and curious nature. These public viewings serve not only to delight guests but also to highlight the importance of protecting endangered wildlife and supporting global conservation objectives.
Sumatran tigers face a range of threats in their natural habitat, including deforestation, poaching, and habitat fragmentation. Conservation breeding programs in zoos are regarded as essential for maintaining genetic diversity and supporting potential future reintroduction projects. Berlin Zoo's involvement in these efforts underscores its commitment to the protection of rare and endangered species.
Members of the public interested in participating in the naming process or sponsorship are encouraged to visit the zoo or reach out through official communication channels. The initiative is expected to foster greater awareness about the precarious status of Sumatran tigers and inspire continued support for their conservation worldwide.