A critically endangered tiger has arrived at Edinburgh Zoo.
Male Sumatran tiger, Lucu, arrived in the capital today from Paignton Zoo, Devon, to help save the future of his species.
The four-year-old wildcat is hoped to breed with Edinburgh’s current female tiger Dharma to stop them going extinct.
It is hoped their potential cubs could protect the stunning species future, which is being threatened with extensive habitat loss and poaching.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has welcomed the arrival of Lucu as staff at the wildlife conservation charity hope visitors will come see the zoo's newest resident soon.
Darren McGarry, head of living collections at RZSS, said, “We are very excited to welcome Lucu into our care and for visitors to meet him soon.
“It will take a couple of days for him to settle in and explore his new home, and we will slowly begin introductions with Dharma in the months to come.”
Darren added, “Sumatran tigers are critically endangered in the wild and any cubs Lucu and Dharma raise would be a potentially important contribution to the future of the species, which is at risk of extinction due to extensive habitat loss and poaching.”
Lucky visitors may be able to spot Lucu in his indoor area over the weekend at Edinburgh Zoo’s Tiger Tracks.
