Two Critically Endangered Sumatran Tiger Cubs Born at Fort Worth Zoo
Fewer than 650 Sumatran tigers remain in the wild, making the birth of two female cubs at the Fort Worth Zoo a vital milestone for the critically endangered subspecies. Born July 1, the twin cubs—named Barani and Malu—mark the first Sumatran tiger births in the zoo’s 117-year history.
Growth and Development Behind the Scenes
The cubs weighed just 3 to 4 pounds and measured 10 to 12 inches long when they were one week old. At 12 weeks old, Barani and Malu now weigh 18 and 20 pounds, respectively, and measure between 25 and 29 inches long. Keepers report that the sisters have spent their first three months behind the scenes with first-time mother Ndari, learning to run, jump, and climb while beginning to eat meat alongside their mother’s milk.
Naming the Twin Tiger Sisters
Zookeepers chose names inspired by Indonesian languages to honor the tigers’ native island habitat of Sumatra. Barani, the smaller and more energetic cub, means “brave” and frequently initiates play-fights with her sister. Malu means “shy or reserved,” with keepers noting that she is more independent and often seeks out a neighboring barn stall to nap by herself.
Tiger Cubs Prepare for Public Debut
The cubs were born in the zoo’s renovated Predators of Asia & Africa habitat, which opened in 2023 and doubled the size of the previous tiger exhibit. Because Barani and Malu are the first cubs to use the new space, keepers want to ensure they are large and strong enough to swim through its water features safely. Zoo officials expect the sisters to make their public debut in the coming weeks.
Breeding Program Protects Genetically Diverse Tigers
The Fort Worth Zoo participates in a cooperative North American breeding program designed to maintain a healthy, genetically diverse population of Sumatran tigers under human care. Habitat loss and deforestation on the Indonesian island of Sumatra drive the ongoing decline of the wild population, according to data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sumatran Tiger Cubs
Who are the parents of Barani and Malu?
The twin cubs were born to first-time mother Ndari and father Rakan at the Fort Worth Zoo.
When was the last time tiger cubs were born at the Fort Worth Zoo?
The last tiger cubs born at the facility were Malayan tigers in 2008, making Barani and Malu the first tiger cubs of any subspecies born at the zoo in nearly two decades.
Where are Sumatran tigers found in the wild?
Sumatran tigers live exclusively on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, located south of the Malay Peninsula and west of Java.
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