Endangered Amur tiger cubs born at Como Zoo, the first in decades

The Como Zoo announced some new additions to its pride lands via social media as it celebrates the first birth of tiger cubs in 41 years.

The zoo and conservatory in St. Paul announced on TikTok Wednesday morning that two endangered Amur tiger cubs, a male and a female, were born last Thursday.

The cubs’ mother, Bernadette, is seven years old and was born at the Milwaukee County Zoo in Wisconsin before joining the Como Zoo in October 2023. The father, Tsar, is 11 years old and was born at the Sedgwick County Zoo in Kansas.

Since February 2019, Tsar has called the Como Zoo home. Bernadette and Tsar are first-time parents.

“This is an extraordinary milestone for Como,” said Michelle Furrer , Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s Director. “The birth of these tiger cubs is not only a testament to the dedication and expertise of our animal care team but also a beacon of hope for the conservation of Amur tigers worldwide."

These are the first tigers born at the Como Zoo in 41 years.

Amur tigers are among the world's giant cats. According to a 2022 assessment published by the IUCN Red List, their population is estimated to be between 265 and 486 in the far east of Russia.

The zoo says the cubs and Bernadette will be kept out of the public eye for the coming months as they bond. Visitors to the zoo will continue to see Tsar in the tiger pen.

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