London Zoo is home to the Sumatran tigers, the rarest subspecies of tiger, classified as Critically Endangered, with only 400 individuals left in the wild. These majestic creatures are known for their deep orange coats with broad black stripes, the darkest coats of all tiger subspecies, and long whiskers.
Species Overview
Sumatran tigers are the smallest of the tiger subspecies, with males weighing around 120-308 kg and females around 75-170 kg. They are characterized by their distinctive dark orange coats with thick, black stripes, which help them blend into the dense vegetation of their natural habitat. Sumatran tigers are solitary animals, with males and females only coming together to mate.
Habitat and Location
Sumatran tigers are native to the tropical rainforests of the Indonesian island of Sumatra. At London Zoo, they reside in the Tiger Territory exhibit, which is designed to replicate their natural environment. The exhibit features tall trees for climbing, high feeding poles, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that allow visitors to observe the tigers up close.
| Habitat Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Vegetation | Tall trees, dense undergrowth, and lush vegetation to mimic the tropical rainforest |
| Water Sources | Streams and pools for the tigers to drink and cool off |
| Enrichment | High feeding poles, logs, and other structures for the tigers to climb and play |
| Visitor Viewing | Floor-to-ceiling glass windows for unobstructed views of the tigers |
Threats and Conservation Efforts
Sumatran tigers face a number of threats in the wild, including illegal hunting for their skins and body parts, as well as habitat destruction due to deforestation and human encroachment. The London Zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.
ZSL, the international conservation charity behind London Zoo, works closely with businesses and industries in Indonesia to promote sustainable practices and increase accountability. This helps to protect the remaining Sumatran tiger population in the wild.
In addition to these efforts, London Zoo also participates in breeding programs to help ensure the long-term survival of the Sumatran tiger subspecies.
Visitor Experiences
Visitors to London Zoo can participate in the Tiger Keeper Experience, an exclusive opportunity to join the team before the zoo opens to the public and experience what it takes to care for the tiger family. This intimate experience allows up to four people to create enrichment, clean, observe keepers training, and potentially feed one of the tigers.
The Tiger Keeper Experience runs from 9-10:15 am on Tuesdays, with tickets priced at £135 per person, including zoo admission. Gold Members, Fellows, and Patrons receive a 10% discount. For health and safety reasons, participants must be at least 11 years old, and pregnant or nursing mothers cannot participate. The experience is wheelchair accessible, with manual push chairs provided for users of mobility scooters.
Hours, Rates, and Contact Information
- Tiger Keeper Experience: Tuesdays, 9-10:15 am
- Ticket Price: £135 per person (includes zoo admission)
- Discounts: 10% for Gold Members, Fellows, and Patrons
- Age Requirement: Minimum 11 years old
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, manual push chairs provided for mobility scooter users
- Contact: For visitors with disabilities or learning difficulties, it is recommended to contact London Zoo for advice before purchasing any experiences.