Manor Wildlife Park’s newly born Sumatran tiger cub - Zaza, had the chance to meet the press today, but would he come out to say hi?

The park situated on the outskirts of Tenby in the village of St Florence was thrilled to announce the birth of Zaza earlier this week, marking a momentous occasion as the first tiger cub to be born in a zoo in Wales.

Born on May 25th, Zaza is a symbol of hope and a critical addition to the global effort to conserve this critically endangered species.

The birth of Zaza represents a significant milestone not only for Manor Wildlife Park but also for wildlife conservation in Wales.

The Sumatran tiger, one of the world's most endangered tiger subspecies, faces severe threats from habitat loss and poaching. Zaza's arrival brings renewed focus to the importance of protecting these majestic creatures and their natural habitats.

With the press appearing hoping to catch a peep of Zaza in his surroundings, Manor Park’s head keeper Kim Wilkins called breakfast time for the family, and with head of the Sumatran tiger family mum Terima tucking in, and dad Jaya keeping a watchful eye, it wasn’t long before Zaza ventured out (although he was seemingly a bit camera shy an hour or so later when ITV News arrived!)

Kim who began her career in the primate section and as a presenter at Bristol Zoo, before moving to Turkey at a dolphin therapy facility, and then onto Yorkshire Wildlife Park, before taking up the post at Manor Park a year ago.

She explained the importance of the Sumatran tiger European breeding programme, of which Manor Park is currently part of, working to safeguard the future of the most enigmatic of species.

“Sumatran tigers are one of the rarest animals on our planet, and they are facing threats like habitat loss and poaching,” said Kim, who shares her work with zoos all over the world.

“We are trying really hard to make sure Sumatran tigers are here for future generations, so we really hope that you come and visit Zaza!”

Numbers have plummeted in their native Sumatra in Indonesia due to habitat loss and deforestation caused by increased logging and the agriculture – especially from palm oil plantations.

Illegal hunting is also a problem as these animals are revered for their skins and seen as a threat to livestock.

The park’s conservation programme is dedicated to supporting global efforts to preserve endangered species through breeding initiatives, habitat conservation, and public education.

Zaza's birth is a hopeful reminder of the impact that dedicated conservation work can have on preserving our planet's wildlife.

Zaza’s parents are Jaya who joined the park from Chester Zoo in 2016, and Terima, a female who arrived from Beauval Zoological Park, France in 2015.

The birth was monitored closely by the park's veterinary and animal care teams to ensure both mother and cub received the best possible care. Zaza has been thriving under the watchful eye of her mother, Terima, and the two have been bonding beautifully since the birth.

Rick Newton, the Animal Manager at Manor Wildlife Park, expressed his excitement and pride, saying, "We are overjoyed to welcome Zaza to our family. This birth is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team, who have worked tirelessly to create an environment where these magnificent animals can thrive.

“Zaza's arrival is a beacon of hope for the conservation of Sumatran tigers, and we are committed to ensuring she grows up healthy and strong."

Visitors to Manor Wildlife Park will now have the opportunity to see Zaza as she begins to venture out of her den and explore her surroundings.

The cub will be viewable to the public during regular park hours, allowing visitors to witness this historic moment and learn more about the park’s ongoing conservation efforts to protect Sumatran tigers.

Head to: https://www.manorwildlifepark.co.uk for more information about the attraction park in Pembrokeshire - where you can meet a wealth of wildlife, with everything from - meerkats, ostriches, zebras, rhinos, red bellied lemurs, llamas, camels, Saki monkeys and even warty pigs!