Two rare Amur tiger cubs, Kazimir and Arina, confidently made their public debut today at Howletts Wild Animal Park in Kent.
At five months old, these playful siblings captured visitors’ attention as they explored their enclosure, often cuddling up to their keeper, Ben Warren, who had cared for them since their mother abandoned them.
Their survival is critical, with only an estimated 400 Amur tigers left in the wild in parts of northeast China, eastern Russia, and North Korea.
Keeper Ben Warren reflected on their early struggles: “These cute cubs had a hard start in life, as their mum left them alone. We hand-raised them to ensure they received the nutrition and care they needed.”
Hand-rearing involved feeding the cubs every two hours, constant supervision, and regular health check-ups by the veterinary team on-site. Warren expressed joy at their progress, noting their distinct personalities.
While Arina, the female cub, has faced challenges, including surgery to address a condition affecting her bone mass that causes her to limp, her recovery has been partially successful.
Amur tigers are critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching, driven by demand for their beautiful pelts and the unfounded belief in the medicinal properties of their bones and teeth.
Neil Spooner, the animal director at Howletts, emphasized the importance of breeding these magnificent creatures, stating, “All births are crucial for the survival of these big cats for future generations.”
Kazimir and Arina, as they continue to adapt to their new surroundings, symbolize hope for their species.
Amur tigers can grow up to 80 inches long and weigh as much as 380 pounds, showcasing their impressive size and strength.
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