News Summary
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, South Carolina, has introduced Suci, a 2-year-old Sumatran tiger. Born at the Memphis Zoo, Suci now embarks on a new chapter, captivating visitors with her playful demeanor and curious personality. Her arrival supports vital conservation efforts for the critically endangered Sumatran tiger, of which only about 400 to 600 remain in the wild. Zoo-goers are encouraged to visit Suci daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to witness her energetic antics.
Columbia, South Carolina – Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has proudly welcomed a new resident, Suci, a 2-year-old Sumatran tiger. Suci is now showcasing her vibrant personality in the zoo’s tiger habitat, providing an exciting new attraction for visitors.
Suci was born at the Memphis Zoo in 2023 and is one of the first tiger cubs born there in over two decades, marking a remarkable achievement for the facility. Suci has quickly become popular among zoo-goers, known for her bold spirit and playful nature, drawing attention with her curious behavior.
The arrival of Suci at Riverbanks Zoo is significant as it supports the Sumatran Tiger Species Survival Plan, a collaborative initiative focused on the conservation of the critically endangered Sumatran tiger. This plan aims to protect and sustain the species, which is facing severe threats in their native habitat of Indonesia.
Zoo officials have expressed their honor in providing a new home for Suci, recognizing the importance of her role in the survival and health of her species. She currently stands as Riverbanks Zoo’s only tiger following the recent passing of Amur tiger Koshka, who was euthanized earlier this year due to intervertebral disc disease. Koshka lived a long life, reaching 20 years, which is beyond the typical life expectancy of 12 to 15 years for tigers in captivity.
The Sumatran tiger population is critically low; according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, there are only an estimated 400 to 600 Sumatran tigers remaining in the wild. This alarming status underscores the urgency of conservation efforts and the importance of facilities dedicated to their protection.
Visitors can encounter Suci at Riverbanks Zoo daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. To maximize opportunities to see her active, particularly during warmer days, guests are advised to arrive early. Her charming disposition and energetic display are already delighting those who come to experience her presence.
In summary, Suci’s introduction to Riverbanks Zoo not only enhances the zoo’s offerings but also plays a crucial part in global conservation efforts for the critically endangered Sumatran tiger. As visitors engage with Suci, they contribute to a collective awareness and appreciation of the challenges faced by wildlife in their natural environments.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Riverbanks Zoo Welcomes New Sumatran Tiger
- Wikipedia: Sumatran Tiger
- WLTX: Riverbanks Zoo Introduces Sumatran Tiger Suci
- Google Search: Sumatran Tiger
- Jacksonville.com: Top Zoos in the U.S.
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tiger
- World Atlas: Largest Zoos in the U.S.
- Google News: Riverbanks Zoo
- USA Tales: Biggest Zoos in the U.S.
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