The Tiger Cubs Make Their Debut

We had previously reported the birth of the tiger cubs on April 13, but until now, only zoo staff directly involved with tiger care had access to them. This was necessary because during the first few weeks, both the cubs and the mother need complete peace and quiet—especially since this is the first litter for the mother, Agnessa.

Now, eight weeks later, the time has come to introduce them to the public. On Thursday morning, during a press event, our team temporarily separated the cubs from their mother. Both cubs were gently handled for a brief examination led by Dr. Endre Sós, our Director General and Head Veterinarian. During this quick check-up, their physical condition and health status were assessed. This also confirmed their sexes—something the keepers had already suspected based on their observations. The cubs were given their age-appropriate combined vaccine, a deworming treatment, and identification microchips. They were also weighed: the female cub was 8.4 kg and her brother 9.2 kg. After the brief examination, they were returned to their mother. Soon after, the cubs were let out into the outdoor enclosure, where visitors could finally see them as well.

Although we now know the sex of the cubs, they have not yet been named. We are inviting the public to take part in naming them. From today until Tuesday, suggestions can be submitted through the Zoo’s official Facebook page. We will select the best ideas and put them to a vote. The names receiving the most votes will be given to the cubs and also registered in the international tiger studbook.

The tigers at Budapest Zoo all belong to the subspecies known as the Siberian or Amur tiger. Across 121 European zoos, there are currently 277 individuals of this subspecies. The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) has launched an international breeding program to support the coordinated, conservation-based breeding of this increasingly rare animal. Budapest Zoo is an active participant in this program.