In a heartwarming event, four Amur tiger cubs have debuted at AquaZoo Leeuwarden, marking a historic moment as the first time the Friesland, Netherlands, Zoo has welcomed baby tigers.

The adorable foursome came into the world in the early hours of June 15, much to the delight of the staff.

Chief animal caretaker William Kreijkes was excited, stating, “The birth of youngsters is always extraordinary. You hope for it, but when it happens, it is extraordinary.”

The mother and her newborns are staying indoors, with the cubs’ eyes still closed. According to Kreijkes, it’s uncertain when they’ll venture outside as the animals will decide on their own when they’re ready to explore the outdoor enclosure.

The Amur tiger, native to the region bordering China and Siberia, faces severe threats in the wild, with only a few hundred left in their natural habitat.

Habitat loss due to forest fires and logging, coupled with poaching for traditional Asian medicine, poses significant challenges to their survival.

European zoos, including AquaZoo, participate in management programs to preserve the species and ensure a healthy population within parks.

These programs oversee the breeding and relocation of animals with no monetary transactions involved.

AquaZoo welcomed two adult tigers last year to their spacious enclosure, featuring various natural elements as part of their conservation efforts.

General manager Jeroen Loomeijer expressed joy at the cubs’ arrival, coinciding with the zoo’s twentieth anniversary.

In addition to caring for tigers in captivity, AquaZoo contributes to tiger conservation in the wild by supporting initiatives like the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).

WCS focuses on combating poaching and preserving Amur tiger habitats, including closing logging roads that facilitate illegal activities.