Apple Valley, MINN – August 17, 2017 – The Minnesota Zoo began the naming contest on July 25 and received more than 3,500 name submissions from tiger cub fans around the world. “There were some pretty unique names on the list,” says Trista Fischer, Northern Trail assistant curator. “The tiger zookeepers had a great time reading all of the submissions and picking our top three favorites.”

The other two name options included “Amaya” [pronounced ah-my-ah], meaning night rain and “Amira” [pronounced ah-meer-ah], meaning princess.

Minnesota Zoo staff, volunteers and guests are eagerly anticipating Vera’s public debut with her mother, Sundari, in the coming weeks. “The Amur tiger is such a beautiful animal and we are so happy to be able to share their important story and engage our guests on how they can help protect and save Amur tigers in the wild,” continues Fischer. “Vera is definitely going to be a ‘spunky’ ambassador for the species.”

The female cub, born on April 26 earlier this year, is currently being cared for behind the scenes by the Zoo’s dedicated animal care staff with her mother, Sundari. Guests from around the world have been able to watch her grow up with a special Tiger Cub Webcam, sponsored by Cub. Her zookeepers say she has a curious and adventurous personality.

The last tiger birth at the Minnesota Zoo occurred in 2012, when Sundari was born to female Angara - who is currently located at Como Zoo in St. Paul. Since its opening in 1978, the Minnesota Zoo has welcomed more than 40 Amur tiger cubs. Amur tigers can been seen along the Minnesota Zoo’s Northern Trail.

The Minnesota Zoo is a year-round destination located in Apple Valley, just minutes south of Mall of America. The Zoo’s mission is to connect people, animals and the natural world to save wildlife. For more information, call 952.431.9500 or visit mnzoo.org. The Minnesota Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and an institutional member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).