City of Waco, TX
11/15/2024 | News release | Archived content
Cameron Park Zoo Welcomes New Sumatran Tigers
Cameron Park Zoo Welcomes New Sumatran Tigers
Created on November 15, 2024 at 10:00 AM
Cameron Park Zoo is excited to announce the arrival of two male Sumatran tigers, a father and son, from the Memphis Zoo. Gusti, the father, was born on July 9, 2017, at the Oklahoma City Zoo and was transferred to the Memphis Zoo on Aug. 3, 2021. His son, Nakal, was born on May 5, 2023, at the Memphis Zoo.
Gusti, a seven-year-old Sumatran tiger
Nakal, an 18-month-old Sumatran tiger
This transfer was recommended by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) Sumatran Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP) to promote the conservation of these critically endangered species and provide potential breeding opportunities in the future.
Currently, Cameron Park Zoo is home to one female Sumatran tiger, Maharani, who is 18 years old and was born on May 24, 2006, at the National Zoological Park. The life expectancy for both male and female Sumatran tigers is approximately 17 years, highlighting the importance of breeding programs in zoos. While Maharani will remain a vital part of the zoo's conservation efforts, it is important to note that Gusti and Nakal will not be paired with her.
Gusti and Nakal arrived at Cameron Park Zoo on Oct. 24, 2024. Their arrival marks a significant step in enhancing the zoo's commitment to wildlife conservation and education, as well as providing visitors with the unique opportunity to learn about these magnificent animals.
New Animal Births
Baby Gerenuk
In other zoo-related news, a female baby gerenuk was born on Oct. 6 and has been named Marcella (Marci). Her name originates from the Roman god Mars and means warlike, martial, and strong. Marci's mother is Cornelia and her father is Kronk.
Gerenuks, native to Africa, are unique members of the antelope family, known for their remarkable ability to stand upright on their hind legs. This fascinating adaptation allows them to reach leaves high up in trees and tall bushes, highlighting their incredible agility and feeding behavior.
Horned Pit Vipers
Six horned pit vipers were born on July 20, 2024. Like many reptiles, pit vipers are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Horned pit vipers are native to Vietnam and southern China and are listed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature as near threatened.
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