New beginnings for our Sumatran tigers...
19th May 2026
It’s the beginning of a new chapter for our Sumatran tigers, Sialang and Jahly, as we prepare for the arrival of two new tigers as part of global conservation efforts to save the Critically Endangered species from extinction.
As part of the EAZA Ex-situ Programme (EEP) welcoming two new Sumatran tigers to the zoo, with hopes the pair will successfully breed in the future.
This new duo, have been matched up as part of the programme based on their genetics. Recommendations made by the EEP are carefully coordinated to create healthy and genetically diverse populations within zoos, helping to safeguard the species for the future.
To help prepare for the move, over the past couple of months, our amazing team have been conducting training sessions with the pair to help familiarise them with the moving process and ensure they feel comfortable ahead of their departure.
Last week marked the beginning of this new chapter as we said goodbye to Sialang, our male tiger, who has now settled into his new home at Edinburgh Zoo. His move was recommended by the EEP following a genetically suitable match with Edinburgh’s female tiger.
Andrew Laing, Senior Animal Keeper at Edinburgh Zoo shared: “It's been a real joy welcoming Sialang to the zoo. He travelled very well and is already exploring every inch of his new habitat. We expect it may take some time for him to fully settle in, but we’re excited to see his personality shine through and for him to get to know our female, Dharma. With any luck, the pair will really hit it off!”
In the coming weeks, Jahly will also make her journey to a new zoo in Europe.
As a Critically Endangered species, Sumatran tigers face increasing threats in the wild, including habitat loss and poaching. It’s estimated that fewer than 400 remain in their natural habitat which is why the work of zoos like ours is important to safeguard their populations for the future.
This work is only possible thanks to your support of our conservation charity, thank you.
