Endangered tiger enjoys meat-cake on first birthday

A Sumatran tiger, whose species is critically endangered, has celebrated its first birthday.

One-year-old Lastari enjoyed a birthday cake cake made from frozen goat’s milk and chunks of meat and some shaped, blood ice blocks.

Born at West Midlands Safari Park, hers was the first tiger born in 16 years and the first Sumatran cub to be born in the park's 50-year history.

Her milestone birthday comes after she had initially struggled to walk because of weakness in her front limbs.

After physiotherapy and walking aids to help strengthen her legs however, Lestari was soon causing mischief around the safari park.

It is estimated that there may be fewer than 4,000 tigers left in the wild and with only 400 of those Sumatran, it makes them the most endangered of the subspecies.

For her birthday, Lestari enjoyed playing with giant colourful boomer balls and splashing in the pool, which keepers say is amazing after her worrying start to life.

"To see her progress and become stronger every day, has been very rewarding,” said Chris Hodgkins, head keeper of carnivores.

"Although she seems very independent at times, she still looks for her mum, Dourga, and never wanders far from her side.

"We’re all very proud of the young tiger Lestari has become.”

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