Cameron Park Zoo Welcomes New Animals

WACO, TEXAS (November 1, 2024) – Cameron Park Zoo is excited to announce the arrival of two male Sumatran tigers,
a father and son, from the Memphis Zoo. Gusti, the father, was born July 9, 2017, at the Oklahoma City Zoo and was
transferred to the Memphis Zoo August 3, 2021. His son, Nakal, was born on May 5, 2023, at the Memphis Zoo.
This transfer was recommended by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) Sumatran Tiger Species Survival Plan
(SSP) to promote the conservation of these critically endangered species and provide potential breeding opportunities in
the future. Currently, Cameron Park Zoo is home to one female Sumatran tiger, Maharani, who is 18 years old and was
born on May 24, 2006, at the National Zoological Park. The life expectancy for both male and female Sumatran tigers is
approximately 17 years, highlighting the importance of breeding programs in zoos. While Maharani will remain a vital
part of the zoo’s conservation efforts, it is important to note that Gusti and Nakal will not be paired with her.
Gusti and Nakal arrived at Cameron Park Zoo on October 24, 2024. Their arrival marks a significant step in enhancing the
zoo’s commitment to wildlife conservation and education, as well as providing visitors with the unique opportunity to
learn about these magnificent animals.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gusti and Nakal to Cameron Park Zoo” said Brendan Wiley, Zoo Director. “This addition not
only supports the conservation efforts for Sumatran tigers, but also enriches our community’s understanding of these
incredible creatures.”

New animal births: A female baby gerenuk was born on October 6 and has been named Marcella (Marci). Her name
originates from the Roman god Mars and means warlike, martial, and strong. Marci’s mother is Cornelia and her father
is Kronk. Gerenuks, native to Africa, are unique members of the antelope family, known for their remarkable ability to
stand upright on their hind legs. This fascinating adaptation allows them to reach leaves high up in trees and tall bushes,
highlighting their incredible agility and feeding behavior.

Six horned pit vipers were born on July 20, 2024. Like many reptiles pit vipers are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs.
Horned pit vipers are native to Vietnam and southern China and are listed by IUCN (International Union for the
Conservation of Nature) as near threatened.