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ASSOCIATION OF ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS’ SELECTS HOUSTON DOWNTOWN AQUARIUM AS HOME FOR ENDANGERED SUMATRAN TIGER CUB SISTERS
Tigers Moving from Nashville Zoo as Part of Species’ Survival Plan®
HOUSTON, TX – Houston’s Downtown Aquarium is thrilled to be welcoming two new arrivals: Kirana and Zara, adolescent Sumatran tiger sisters from the Nashville Zoo. The pair joins Bengal tiger Marina, the oldest Bengal tiger in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) population and the oldest tiger within AZA facilities at 21 years old, and Apollo. The new arrivals are part of the AZA’s Species Survival Plan® (SSP), a nationwide program focused on the conservation of endangered species through responsible population management.
“We’re honored to be selected and play a role in the global effort to save this iconic species,” said Jim Prappas, Director of Animal Operations. “It’s a responsibility we take seriously, and says a lot about our facilities, people and program to be entrusted by the AZA to help Kirana and Zara grow into strong, healthy adults.”
Born in October 2023, Kirana and Zara will arrive at their new home soon, where they will receive specialized care and training during their adolescent years. Their arrival will mark an exciting chapter for Downtown Aquarium’s commitment to animal conservation and public education.
Prappas further commented, “these girls are an incredible addition to our tiger family. Their playful energy and natural curiosity are already a hit with our team, and we look forward to sharing their journey with our guests.”
As part of the SSP program, it is likely that Kirana and Zara’s time in Houston is temporary. However, their stay will help prepare them for adulthood and future opportunities to contribute to the species’ survival through breeding and continued conservation work. While at the Aquarium, they will participate in a robust husbandry training program that includes voluntary health checks, dental exams, body condition monitoring, vaccines, blood draws, and ultrasounds.
The Sumatran tiger is classified as Critically Endangered, with fewer than 400 individuals remaining in the wild. Through the Sumatran Tiger SSP, expert advisors collaborate with AZA-accredited institutions like Downtown Aquarium to increase genetic diversity and ensure long-term population stability.
To follow Kirana and Zara’s journey, follow @AquariumHouston on social media.
About Downtown Aquarium
Landry’s, LLC’s Downtown Aquarium displays a 150,000-gallon aquarium and is home to more than 400 different species of colorful, tropical marine life including more than 30 sharks (sand tiger, white tip, brown, zebra, nurse and bamboo sharks). Fish from the Caribbean Sea, Hawaii, South Pacific and the Indian Ocean – some as large as six feet long – coexist in their tanks providing both an educational encounter and an innovative under-the-sea-themed upscale dining experience. Additional attractions include five amusement rides, midway games, dancing fountains, the Shark Voyage train ride, and more. Downtown Aquarium is located at 410 Bagby Street in Downtown Houston.
