By Wanda Wierzbicki
The Toronto Zoo has reopened and it is a great time to visit. The cooler temperatures mean that many animals are more active.
Mila, the Amur tiger cub, is a big crowd pleaser. She was born on April 31 after a 104-day pregnancy to 13-year-old Mazy and 9-year-old Vasili. Mila (meaning loved by the people or dear one) was the name chosen by over 15,000 people.
Amur tigers, previously known as Siberian tigers, are the largest tiger subspecies in the world. They are endangered in the wild, and Mila is a valuable addition to the Species Survival Plan (SSP).
Amur tigers are unique cats. Unlike most other cat species, they like the water and are good swimmers. Their bodies are well adapted to live in cold remote climates. They have big snowshoe-like paws, thick fur on their bellies, and small ears to minimize heat loss. Their orange, black and white colouring allows them to camouflage in the snow-covered forest.
Mila loves to play. She runs, jumps and pounces on her mom as she practises her hunting skills. She is growing fast and now weighs over 15 kgs. Soon she will be venturing into the outdoor enclosure. You can follow Mila and Mazy on the Giant Tiger Live Cam hosted by Zoolife.
If you visit, the Zoo has COVID protocols in place: Guests must purchase a timed ticket in advance. Members can visit anytime. Masks are required in all pavilions and where social distancing is not possible. The zoo mobile is running and Terra Lumina is back. It’s a good time to go.
Always check the Toronto Zoo website for current information – torontozoo.com.