October 16, 2024
Como Zoo Names Amur Tiger Cubs: Marisa and Maks
Two long-time volunteers chose names for the critically endangered tiger cubs.
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is thrilled to announce the names of its two critically endangered Amur tiger cubs, born on August 29th. After much anticipation, the cubs—a male and a female—have been named “Marisa” and “Maks,” thanks to the thoughtful suggestions of two long-term volunteers who have been champions for Como for many years. These dedicated individuals have spent countless hours in the Large Cat Building, teaching the public about large cats and supporting the work of the zookeepers. Their contribution continues through this special opportunity to name the cubs.
The female cub has been named Marisa (mar-EES-ah), a name that the volunteers found to mean “spirited and tenacious”—a perfect reflection of her personality. The name also carries special significance for Como Zoo community, as it honors a retired Cat Zookeeper named Marisa, who was instrumental in the care of large cats during her 43 years at the zoo.
The male cub has been named Maks (max), a name often associated with meanings like “the greatest” or “strength and leadership.” The volunteers felt this was an apt description of the male cub’s confident demeanor and growing sense of leadership.
“It’s incredibly meaningful to have long-term volunteers, who have spent years educating the public about our large cats, help shape this important moment in the cubs’ lives,” said Michelle Furrer, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s Director. “Marisa and Maks aren’t just names; they’re a fun reminder of the passion and care that keep us committed to protecting wildlife every day”.
These cubs represent a significant success story for the Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP), a program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) aimed at the conservation and management of this critically endangered species. The cubs’ mother, Bernadette, and father, Tsar, were paired following a breeding recommendation from the SSP, making this birth an essential part of ongoing efforts to preserve Amur tigers.
“This is a significant milestone for Como,” said Furrer. “The birth of these tiger cubs showcases the dedication of our animal care team, and the naming process has strengthened the bond between our animals, staff, and the amazing volunteers who work tirelessly to support Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.”
Both mother and cubs remain off exhibit and in their private maternity den, with the cubs continuing to bond and grow strong. In time, the public will have the chance to meet Marisa and Maks, but for now, Como will provide updates on their progress through its website and social media channels.
Background on the Parents Marisa and Maks are the first tiger cubs born at Como Zoo in more than 41 years. Their mother, Bernadette, is 7 years old, born at the Milwaukee County Zoo, and arrived at Como from the Oregon Zoo in 2023. Tsar, their 11-year-old father, was born at the Sedgwick County Zoo and has resided at Como since 2019. This is the first time both tigers have become parents.
The Big Cat Habitat Project In addition to celebrating the birth of the cubs, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is looking ahead to its proposed Big Cat Habitat project. This initiative aims to enhance the welfare of large cats at the zoo while providing visitors with immersive experiences. The project includes ADA and energy-efficiency upgrades, ensuring greater accessibility for all visitors. Como Zoo is actively seeking funding through a State Bonding appropriation to bring this vision to life and further support the conservation of these endangered animals.
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9/21 – Just a little paws for some serious cuteness! 🐯💤 Our tiger cubs are practicing their snooze skills…
Hope you got to sleep in, or maybe you can catch a catnap later, on this #Caturday! 😴
📷: Senior Keeper Jill, and Zookeepers Hans and Caitlin.
9/17 – New video! Wakey Wakey, it’s bath time!
We are thrilled to announce the birth of two critically endangered Amur tiger cubs on the morning of August 29th. These cubs—a male and a female—are the first tigers born at Como Zoo in more than 41 years, marking a historic and exciting moment for the zoo and its conservation efforts.
The cubs’ mother, Bernadette, is 7 years old and was born on September 14, 2016, at the Milwaukee County Zoo in Wisconsin. She joined Como Zoo from the Oregon Zoo in October 2023. The father, Tsar, is 11 years old, born on July 6, 2013, at the Sedgwick County Zoo in Kansas. Tsar has been a resident of Como Zoo since February 2019. This is the first time both Bernadette and Tsar have become parents.
The pairing of Tsar and Bernadette was made following a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP), a program dedicated to the management and conservation of Amur tigers in accredited institutions across the country. With a gestation period of approximately 104 days, the arrival of these cubs offers new hope for this critically endangered species.
“This is an extraordinary milestone for Como,” said Michelle Furrer, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s Director. “The birth of these tiger cubs is not only a testament to the dedication and expertise of our animal care team but also a beacon of hope for the conservation of Amur tigers worldwide. We look forward to sharing their growth and milestones with everyone who visits Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.”
Both mother and cubs are in good health and will remain in their private, calm maternity den for the next few months. This period is crucial for mother-cub bonding and for the cubs to grow strong enough to explore their outdoor habitat safely. Zookeepers and veterinary staff are monitoring the new family closely via cameras, observing Bernadette being a diligent and attentive mother—cleaning, feeding, and keeping the cubs warm.
“These cubs represent a significant success for the Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan and for the future of the species,” said Wes Sims, Director of Animal Care & Health at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. “Our team is incredibly excited about the birth of these two tiger cubs, especially since they are the first offspring for both parents. It’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team that these amazing animals have successfully bred in our care.”
While Bernadette and her cubs will remain off-exhibit for some time, Tsar will continue to be visible to visitors in his habitat. We will provide regular updates on Bernadette and her cubs through our social media channels, offering the public a chance to follow along as the cubs grow.
Amur tigers, also known as Siberian tigers, are the largest tiger subspecies, with males reaching up to 400 pounds. They once roamed across Siberia but are now confined to a small region around the Amur River in the Russian Far East. With fewer than 500 individuals remaining in the wild, they face critical threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
In addition to celebrating the birth of these cubs, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory also seeks to enhance its facilities through a proposed Big Cat Habitat project. This initiative represents a significant opportunity to advance Como’s mission of education and conservation. The project aims to improve the welfare of these majestic creatures while providing visitors with more enriching and immersive experiences. The habitat will include ADA and energy efficiency upgrades, ensuring accessibility for all community members. Como is actively seeking funds through a State Bonding appropriation to bring this project to life and ensure future generations can continue to connect with these ambassadors of their species.
