ST PAUL, Minn. — Como Park Zoo & Conservatory debuted Wednesday the names of two ferocious new faces.
The twin cubs were born Aug. 29 as the first Amur tiger births at Como Zoo in more than 40 years. Longtime volunteers named them Marisa and Maks.
Volunteers named the female cub Marisa after a retired zookeeper who took care of large cats for 43 years at the park, according to Como Park's website. The male cub was dubbed Maks, which volunteers said reflected his confident personality and early leadership skills.
“It’s incredibly meaningful to have long-term volunteers, who have spent years educating the public about our large cats, help shape this important moment in the cubs’ lives,” Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s Director Michelle Furrer said on its website. “Marisa and Maks aren’t just names; they’re a fun reminder of the passion and care that keep us committed to protecting wildlife every day."
The cubs and their mother Bernadette are staying in a private maternity den, not visible to the public. This is the first birth for 7-year-old Bernadette and the cubs' father Tsar.
