Zoo aims to boost tiger population with new arrival

Auckland Zoo's new male tiger, Oz. Picture / Paul Estcourt

With less than 400 Sumatran tigers left in the wild, Auckland Zoo's latest arrival is a special breed indeed.

Oz the male Sumatran tiger arrived from Israel last month and will soon be joined by female counterpart Molek, who relocates from Hamilton Zoo next week.

The pair will slowly be introduced to one another, in a bid to contribute to the worldwide Sumatran tiger population.

In addition to the captive breeding programme, Auckland Zoo is supporting the tigers' cause with a Cocktails for Cats party next month, aimed at raising money for the Kerenci Seblat Project.

The project co-ordinates "rapid-response" units that advocate conservation law while combating tiger trafficking and poaching.

Auckland Zoo team leader Amy Dixon said: "The success of the Kerenci Seblat Project is critical to the future of Sumatran tigers, and I would urge anyone who loves cats, especially tigers, to support this event."

The event will take place at Kingsland's Ivy bar on Saturday November 4, at 7pm. The feline-themed evening will feature live music and comedian Andrew Clay, as well as a charity auction.

Tickets are $25 and available from Auckland Zoo. Phone (09) 360 3805 to book.

- NZHERALD STAFF