The Akron Zoo’s new tiger is now on exhibit. Bandar, a male Sumatran tiger, arrived from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in early October and has been acclimating to his new home. Bandar is now on exhibit daily.

Bandar was born at the National Zoo on Aug. 5, 2013. His father was Kavi, who was born at the Akron Zoo in 2001. 

“Bandar is a very laid-back cat and has a curious personality,” said Eric Albers, animal curator at the Akron Zoo. “We’re excited to have Bandar here as an ambassador for all Sumatran tigers.”

Sumatran tigers are critically endangered primarily due to habitat loss from palm oil plantations. Tiger populations are also declining due to illegal poaching for pelts. There are only 400 Sumatran tigers estimated to be left in the wild. The Akron Zoo participates in the Sumatran tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP) as an Association of Zoo and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility.   

Bandar’s arrival comes after the zoo’s male tiger, Leonidas, passed away in August due to advanced liver disease.