Since 1978, the Minnesota Zoo has championed tiger conservation, contributing actively to field initiatives and participating in the Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP) through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
This mission saw a significant milestone on Mother’s Day, May 8, 2022, when four Amur tiger cubs were born at the zoo.
While one cub did not survive—a common occurrence in larger litters—the remaining three bonded closely with their mother, Sundari (often called Dari), under the dedicated care of the zoo’s Animal Care and Health teams.
“These cubs mark a major, positive step for the global Amur tiger population,” remarked Minnesota Zoo Director John Frawley, expressing pride in the attentive care the zoo’s keepers and veterinary staff provided.
At 15 weeks old, the three cubs—now thriving—are exploring their Tiger Lair habitat daily. Recently, the zoo invited the public to participate in naming one of the male cubs while zoo staff and supporters named the others.
Over 20,000 community votes were cast, resulting in the selection of “Vostok” for one male cub, alongside “Yana” for the female and “Brosno” for the second male.
The chosen names reflect the species’ native landscape in eastern Asia, particularly the Amur River’s forested regions.
Vostok and Brosno refer to regional lakes, while Yana connects to a river, underscoring the zoo’s effort to honor the Amur tiger’s origins.
To further engage the public, Minnesota Zoo has partnered with ZooBoards to release a series titled “Tiger Chats,” offering insights from keepers, vets, and zoologists on the cubs’ development.
Through these educational efforts and community engagement, the Minnesota Zoo remains dedicated to promoting Amur tiger conservation and awareness of these magnificent creatures and their ecosystems.
Read more Wildlife News.
