Tiger cub takes first steps outdoors at Marwell Zoo

A CUTE tiger cub was introduced to its outside habitat as it emerged from the den in the jaws of its protective mother.

By The Newsroom

Published 28th Jul 2016, 06:27 BST

Updated 25th Aug 2016, 20:14 BST

One of the three Amur tiger cubs at Marwell Zoo Picture: Tom Harrison/ Solent News & Photo Agency

The nine-week-old Amur tiger is one of three new arrivals at Marwell Zoo having been born on May 21 to mum Milla.

The arrival of the cubs had been eagerly anticipated as they are the first to be born at the zoo for 12 years. Staff and visitors were delighted to watch the baby animal gently carried out into daylight for the first time yesterday.

The three curious cubs had been poking their heads around the door of the den and, when one of the young tigers seemed ready to go outside, its mother picked it up and carried it out.

Marc Fox, team leader of carnivores, said: ‘We are over the moon that Milla has successfully given birth to three cubs.

‘The cubs are slowly finding their feet under the watchful eye of mum Milla. As they continue to grow, so will their confidence.’