Like countless others, I’ve enjoyed watching Basko the Sumatran tiger at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The first time I saw him, he just wanted to play, while his mom had more of a “go amuse yourself” attitude. Basko is now two, and he will soon be leaving Disney’s Animal Kingdom. While this is sad news for Disney fans, it’s good news for the Sumatran tiger population. With the species critically endangered, it’s hopeful that Basko will become a father at his new home. Here is all the information, from Dr. Scott Terrell and Disney Parks Blog.
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There are some animals who leave a lasting impression the moment they arrive at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Bakso the Sumatran tiger is certainly one of them.
Over the past two years, guests from around the world have watched this playful Sumatran tiger grow from a tiny cub into a confident young adult on Maharajah Jungle Trek. Whether he was splashing in a pool, pouncing on enrichment, or showing off his growing stripes, Bakso has captured hearts every step of the way.
And now, Bakso is getting ready for his next big adventure.
As he celebrates his second birthday, Bakso will soon be leaving Animal Kingdom and moving to another Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA)-accredited zoo later this fall. While we’ll certainly miss seeing him explore his habitat each day, we’re excited for this next chapter in his story.
And this next chapter serves an important purpose. With fewer than 600 Sumatran tigers remaining in the wild, Bakso could one day father his own cubs and help contribute to the future of this critically endangered species.
From Curious Cub to Young Adult
Born to mom, Sohni, and dad, Conrad, in September 2024, Bakso quickly became a fan favorite. From his first public appearances to countless memorable moments shared by our guests, he’s grown into a beautiful young tiger with a curious personality and adventurous spirit.
Did You Know?
- Bakso’s name was inspired by the Indonesian word for “meatball.”
- Like all big cats, Sumatran tigers are carnivores, and our tigers’ meals are prepared at Disney’s Animal Nutrition Center.
- Every tiger has their own pattern of stripes – no two tigers look exactly like!
Growing up is a big milestone for any animal, and tigers are no exception. As young tigers mature, they naturally become more independent and eventually move on to establish territories of their own. In many ways, Bakso’s upcoming move is a natural next step as he enters adulthood.
Why is Bakso Leaving Animal Kingdom?
His move is part of a recommendation from the AZA’s Species Survival Plan, a program that helps accredited zoos work together to care for endangered animals and support the future of their species in managed care.
Disney’s Commitment to Tiger Conservation
This celebration isn’t just about one tiger – it’s about hope for the entire Sumatran tiger species. With fewer than 600 Sumatran tigers in the wild, every birthday is special and serves as a powerful reminder that by providing exceptional care for our animals as well as contributing to conservation efforts in the wild, we can make a difference and ensure a future where tigers continue to thrive.
Bakso represents the incredible collaborative efforts between Disney and the Association of Zoos & Aquarium’s Species Survival Plan (SSP), working together to bolster populations of endangered and threatened species in managed care.
Outside of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) is making a powerful difference for wildlife across the globe. As part of our Disney Planet Possible commitment, the DCF has provided more than $4.5M to 15 organizations working with communities to protect tigers and their forest habitats since 1995.
Visit Bakso Before His Next Adventure
Before Bakso heads off on his next adventure, guests still have time to visit him on Maharajah Jungle Trek at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
We’re grateful to have been part of his journey so far, and we can’t wait to see what comes next for this remarkable tiger.
Caring for Bakso
And while the spotlight is rightfully on the birthday boy enjoying some of his favorite things like ice treats and goat’s milk, this is an impressive achievement for the dozens of Disney animal care experts who have made this milestone possible.
Thanks to the expertise and dedication of our skilled veterinarians, nutritionists, animal keepers, and more, this tiger cub has grown healthy and strong. From preparing his meals to personalizing his habitat, Disney cast members have been there every step of the way.
One of these cast members is Sarah, an animal keeper who is responsible for the daily care, feeding, enrichment, and health monitoring of tigers on Maharajah Jungle Trek.
“I’ve always wanted to work with tigers, and it’s a dream to be able to work with a baby tiger like Bakso,” said Sarah. “I’ve learned so much watching him learn, grow, and reach amazing milestones.”
And these milestones wouldn’t be possible without animal experts like Michelle, a Behavioral Husbandry Manager, who helps the animal keepers work with Bakso and his mother Sohni – a process that started before he was even born.
Michelle’s expertise helps our animal keepers as they teach Bakso to participate in his health checks while building trust and empowering the tiger to take part in his own care. She also helps design elements of his habitat and enrichment activities, tailoring them to stimulate his natural behaviors and challenge his growing mind. By observing Bakso’s reactions and preferences, Michelle learns more about his unique personality full of curiosity and playfulness.
“People don’t realize how different every tiger’s personality truly is,” said Michelle. “The best part of my role is getting a front row seat to all of the small moments that shape Bakso’s personality.”
Happy birthday, Bakso. Adventure awaits!