Camera shy tiger cubs make their zoo debut
They're the largest cats on earth, weighing up to 550 pounds when fully grown.
But two Amur tiger cubs born at Brookfield Zoo were scaredy-cats when it came to their first public appearance.
The cautious duo took two days to emerge into the sunshine after four months indoors with mother, Tiara, a 12-year-old Amur tiger.
Keepers flung open the doors of their outdoor enclosure Wednesday but Tiara was the only family member who showed.
On Thursday, the two cubs peaked curiously at the big world … then ran back in.
"They've been so secluded for four months with their mom; hopefully, they'll get used to the crowds," zoo spokeswoman Sondra Katzen.
The male and female cubs each weigh about 75 pounds but are roughly the size of a beagle. Much of the weight is in their legs and bones.
It's been 10 years since the zoo has been home to tiger cubs. There are only between 350 and 450 Amur tigers in the world. Poaching and development are shrinking their habitats in Russia, China and North Korea.
While acting coy in public, the two enjoy rough-housing in private.
"They use their mother as a jungle gym," said Mike Brown, large carnivore supervisor.