Rare Sumatran tiger cubs get first check-ups at Greek zoo
Three critically endangered Sumatran tiger cubs born at Attica Zoological Park received their first vaccinations and microchips, offering hope for the species.
Three Sumatran tiger cubs, born in early July at Attica Zoological Park near Athens, underwent their first veterinary examinations on Tuesday. The two-month-old cubs — two males and one female — received vaccinations and identification microchips as part of a coordinated effort to protect a species on the brink of extinction.
The Sumatran tiger is classified as critically endangered, with an estimated population of just 400 to 500 individuals remaining in the wild. Found only on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, the species faces severe threats from deforestation and habitat loss.
"The Sumatran tiger is one of the most threatened tiger species in the world," said Theodoros Babilis, head keeper of cats and monkeys at the zoo. He explained that zoos are maintaining a "safety population" of the animals, which could potentially support future reintroduction programs in their natural habitat.
The cubs' mother is Toba, while their father, Argos, died of cancer after the birth. Zoo staff plan to name the cubs after characters from Homer's "The Odyssey."
Veterinarian Dr. Arsenoi Psaroudaki noted that handling the young tigers requires care and speed. "The tigers don't like to be handled. They're very wild," she said, explaining that the team works quickly to minimize stress during procedures.
Even at two months old, the cubs have already developed sharp claws and teeth, making the examination a challenging task. Staff transported the animals to the clinic in carriers on electric buggies.
The microchips will be logged in a shared database, helping zoos worldwide track and manage the genetic diversity of this vulnerable species.