Dallas Zoo announces birth of twin Sumatran tiger cubs and naming fundraiser

The Dallas Zoo said Sumatran tiger Sukacita gave birth to twin cubs on Feb. 22, and the zoo has opened a fundraising naming contest for the female cub that runs through April 20.

The Dallas Zoo announced the arrival of two Sumatran tiger cubs born to Sukacita, also known as Suki, on Feb. 22. The zoo said the twins — one male and one female — each weighed about 2.5 pounds at birth and have been thriving under their mother's care. For now, the cubs are being kept behind the scenes so they can bond with their mother and build strength before exploring their habitat. The zoo noted that Sumatran tigers are critically endangered, with fewer than 600 remaining in the wild. Key details: - Mother: Sukacita (Suki) gave birth on Feb. 22. - Offspring: Twin cubs, one male and one female. - Birth weight: About 2.5 pounds each. - Current status: Cubs are staying behind the scenes to bond with their mother. - Species status: Sumatran tigers are reported as critically endangered, with fewer than 600 remaining in the wild. - Fundraiser: A naming contest for the female cub is open through Monday, April 20, and funds raised will support the zoo's animal care and conservation initiatives. Summary: The zoo said the birth adds to conservation efforts for a critically endangered species and provides new animals for its care programs. The naming contest fundraiser for the female cub will continue through April 20, with raised funds directed to the zoo's mission and conservation initiatives.