International Tiger Day 2023
Posted 27 July 2023
This Saturday (29 July) is International Tiger Day!
Here at Hamilton Zoo, we’re honoured to be home to three Sumatran Tigers. Sumatran Tigers are classified as critically endangered on the IUCN’s Red List - just one step away from extinction.
Zoos worldwide play an essential part in the conservation of this incredible species through education, raising awareness, and participating in international breeding programmes.
For International Tiger Day, Hamilton Zoo will have two feedings/keeper talks on Saturday 29 July at 10:30am and 1:00pm.
There will also be unique paintings by Scout and Sali for sale in the Zoo Shop, with all proceeds going towards Fauna & Flora. This is extra special as this is the first time Scout has painted at Hamilton Zoo.
If you would like to support Sumatran Tigers directly in the wild, or find out some more information, check out Fauna & Flora.
Get to know the Sumatran Tigers in our care through these profiles on each of them.
Sali
At 15 years old, Sali is our eldest tiger in residence. She is a particularly playful tiger and can often be found rolling under bamboo in her enclosure. Sali enjoys interacting with her enrichment items and is very engaging with her keepers. Small in stature but big in personality, she’s a favourite of the team and many visitors.
Originally born at Perth Zoo, Sali eventually transferred to Hamilton Zoo in 2012 when she was four years old. Sali has been an incredible ambassador for her species during her time with us. Additionally, she played a vital role within the international breeding program and gave birth to cubs Kirana and Kembali in November 2014.
Kirana
Kirana is a true star resident, born right here at Hamilton Zoo in 2014 to Sali, our feature tiger from yesterday. Well known amongst her keepers for her talkative nature, Kirana is a quick learner in her training sessions and enjoys being challenged by her enrichment. She is fond of climbing trees and has quite the sassy personality.
As part of international breeding program for Sumatran Tigers, Kirana has been matched with Scout, who you will get a chance to read about tomorrow! While they are not sharing an enclosure, you may hear them vocalizing towards each other when you are next in.
Scout
Born in 2016 at Australia Zoo, before being transferred to Orana Wildlife Park in 2020, Scout arrived at Hamilton Zoo in June as part of the international breeding programme for his species. Scout has been matched with Kirana in this vital role. We're excited to bring you on this journey with us, so stay tuned as we'll be keeping you updated as they get to know each other.
Being a male, Scout can quickly be recognized due to his larger frame and his large white ruff around his face. He has quickly won over the hearts of his keepers, as well as Kirana, and frequently produces a friendly greeting called a prusten – which is more commonly known as a “chuff”. Scout is often active throughout the day and is spending much of his time exploring both enclosures thoroughly. You may even see him taking a dip in the pool if you're lucky!
