06/03/2026
Louisville Zoo celebrate three Amur tiger cubs, first in 22 years
Louisville, KY (June 3, 2026) – Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg and the Louisville Zoo are proud to announce the birth of three Amur tiger cubs, the endangered species’ first births at the Louisville Zoo in 22 years.
“It’s moments like this that remind us of how special our Louisville Zoo is,” said Mayor Greenberg. “The arrival of these tiger cubs gives families another amazing opportunity to connect with wildlife and builds on the Zoo’s unique ability to bring our community together.”
The trio was born on May 27 at 1:24 a.m. to 4-year-old Viktoria and nearly 9-year-old Timmy. Mom and her cubs are currently bonding under the dedicated care of the Zoo’s keeper team. Viktoria is demonstrating all the appropriate behaviors of an experienced mother, including grooming, nursing, and carrying her neonatal cubs.
“Welcoming new Amur tiger cubs for the first time in more than twenty years is a powerful moment for our Zoo and wildlife conservation,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “These newborn cats represent the success of a carefully managed, cooperative program and our continued commitment to preserving this highly endangered species. Every new cub strengthens the future of Amur tigers and inspires our community to appreciate animals beyond our gates.”
The last Amur tiger cubs born at the Louisville Zoo were Irisa and Anya on October 1, 2004. With these three births, there have now been 29 Amur tiger cubs in the Zoo’s 57-year history.
Currently, the cubs and their mother are bonding in their private den. It will likely be several months before guests can see the family in their habitat. The Zoo will share details about the cubs’ names soon.
About Amur Tigers
Amur tigers are listed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)’s Red List of Threatened Species. Formerly called Siberian tigers, they are no longer found in Siberia. They are currently found in the Amur River region of eastern Russia, northeastern China and into the Korean peninsula. They are the largest living feline. Males weigh 400 – 600 pounds on average and measure up to 14 feet long including the tail. Average females weigh between 250 – 300. Tiger stripes are like fingerprints and are unique to that tiger.
Zoo Hours
The Zoo is open daily year-round. Now through September 20, 2026, hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with guests exiting by 6 p.m. The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information on hours and admission.