Zoo Celebrates New Tiger

Woodland Park Zoo is roaring with excitement over a new endangered, male Sumatran tiger. Rakata (RAW-kuh-tuh), 5, arrived from Toronto Zoo and has spent the last two months becoming acclimated to his new home. Rakata is Indonesian for "little volcano." Zookeepers are currently attempting to introduce Rakata to 17-year-old Judie, the zoo’s only other Sumatran tiger. Introduction efforts are taking place behind the scenes, which is off view to the public. For now, Rakata and Judie will alternate being on public view. Last September, Judie lost her 19-year-old companion, Sig, following a series of medical problems.

Tigers in Crisis 2 Special Exhibition Through November 13

Sponsored by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA), Exxon, and the National Fish and Wildlife Service, the purpose of the national traveling exhibit is to help increase awareness of plight of the tigers. Five free-standing kiosks highlighted with dramatic life-size tiger cut-outs, photography and hands-on activities engage visitors into the story of this majestic species. Each kiosk tells a different chapter on the story of tigers, with the objective of educating visitors about the plight of tigers and encouraging them to make a commitment to help these magnificent creatures.

Zoo Lecture 2 "Year for the Tiger" by Ginette Hemley

Friday, September 18, 7:00 p.m. at REI’s Meeting Room

While the 1998 Chinese lunar calendar again celebrates the tiger, its chances for survival in the wild are doubtful. Join Ginette Hemley, World Wildlife Fund’s director of International Wildlife Policy, as she presents images and facts that reveal much about these strong and powerful creatures. Learn about the grave threat’s tigers now face, and what is being done to protect them.

Cost: $5 zoo and REI members/students; $5 WWF members; $6 general public.

Tigers 2 a zoo program

1:30 p.m. Saturdays, October 3, 17, and 31

1:30 p.m. Sundays, September 13, 20, 27; October 11, and 25

Did you know that tigers are only successful 10% of the time while hunting? Meet staff at the tiger grotto along the west side of the Adaptations Building and learn more about these magnificent felines.