Four Critically Endangered Sumatran Tiger Cubs Born at Howletts Wild Animal Park

Meet the proud parents

Tipah may have a new title as mum, but she hasn't lost her playful side. Since arriving at Howletts in 2022, she has become known for her cheeky personality and endless curiosity. Keepers say she loves keeping an eye on everything happening around her enclosure and never misses an opportunity to investigate something new, especially if a cardboard box is involved.

These are Tipah's first cubs and, with a litter of four, she has produced one of the largest litters recorded for Sumatran tigers. Despite being a first-time mum, she has taken to motherhood naturally.

Her keepers describe her as calm, attentive and completely content in her new role, allowing her trusted team nearby while making it very clear that family time remains top priority.

Dad Nakal, has a strong personality too. Since arriving at Howletts last summer, he quickly made it known that he took his role as territory owner very seriously. His early attempts at impressing Tipah were, according to keepers, perhaps a little too enthusiastic. Thankfully he soon realised that playing it cool worked much better.

Now a father, Nakal has reportedly been missing Tipah's company while she focuses on raising the cubs. When not watching over his territory, he can usually be found enthusiastically tearing apart scented parcels scented or hunting for hidden treats provided by his keepers.

Tiny cubs, big personalities

For their first few weeks, the cubs have remained tucked safely away in the den with Tipah, growing stronger each day while enjoying plenty of peace and quiet.

Although keepers are giving the family space, the cubs are already beginning to show signs of their own little personalities emerging.

One cub has already become known for being particularly vocal, often calling loudly whenever mum wanders a little too far away. Another is already noticeably larger than its siblings and seems determined to get a head start in life.

For now, they remain fluffy, curious and wonderfully wobbly, but over the coming weeks they'll begin taking their first adventures outside the den.

And that means visitors may soon get to witness some very special moments...

See the cubs this May half term at Springfest

This May half term, Springfest at Howletts offers families the chance to be among the first people to see these remarkable new arrivals as they start exploring the world around them.

Alongside the excitement of the tiger cubs, families can enjoy a packed programme of wildlife-themed activities and adventures, including:

A birth that matters beyond Howletts

While the cubs are undeniably adorable, their arrival is about much more than four new faces at the park.

Every birth plays an important role in safeguarding the future of critically endangered species. Howletts has a long history of successful conservation breeding programmes and these four cubs represent an important contribution to the long-term survival of Sumatran tigers.

As one spokesperson for Howletts explained:

If you've ever wanted to witness the first steps of one of nature's most endangered big cats, this may be your chance.

Book your May half term visit, grab your £10 kids tickets and come and meet the newest members of the Howletts family...

Buy Tickets - Kids go for £10 throughout half term!