The National Zoo’s two Sumatran tiger cubs are expected to make their public debut on November 18.
First, the male and female tiger cubs will make their media debut during a swim reliability test on on November 6. They will have just turned three-months-old.
During the test, the cubs must prove that they are able to swim, navigate toward shore and climb from the moat onto dry land. Animal care staff will gently place the cubs into the water and help direct them to shore. By passing the test, the cubs will prove to animal care staff that they are ready to safely explore the outdoor habitat.
The cubs, who have yet to be named by an auction winner, were born to Kavi and Damai in August. Like the panda cub, they also have a live cam you can watch.