In a heartwarming revelation, the Toledo Zoo has unveiled the names of their twin Siberian tiger cubs, and the choices are nothing short of magical. Born in July, the twin sisters were recently christened Ember and Ash, reflecting their distinct personalities and captivating the hearts of over 10,000 fans who participated in the nationwide naming contest.

The exciting announcement took place on a special segment of the Today show, where Savannah Guthrie shared the winning names with the world. Ember, meaning Spark, perfectly suits the fiery furball of energy, always ready for playtime and mischief. On the other hand, Ash, meaning Dream, describes the cub who reigns supreme in the art of catnaps, combining shyness with a forceful awakening. Zookeepers note that both cubs are curious explorers, reveling in investigating new enrichment items.

 

The naming contest, which required a $1 donation per vote, drew enthusiastic participation, showcasing the public’s eagerness to contribute to the care and protection of Amur tigers globally. The names Calida, Kima, Valentina, Kamilla, Maya, and Nadya, carefully chosen by the zoo’s staff, added to the anticipation. Despite stiff competition, Ember secured the lead with 2,374 votes, while Ash garnered 1,716 votes.

Ember and Ash, now proudly displaying their monikers, have made their debut at the Toledo Zoo. A delightful Instagram Story featured pumpkins carved with their names, adding a festive touch to the reveal. The cubs’ mother, Tayla, welcomed them into the world on July 20, and their presence is a testament to the zoo’s commitment to the conservation of these incredibly rare Siberian tigers.

Michael Frushour, the Toledo Zoo’s curator of mammals, emphasized the significance of the occasion, highlighting the dire situation of the species in the wild. With only 5,000 tigers left globally and less than 500 of this subspecies in existence, the 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡 of the twin girls is indeed a cause for celebration.

Providing an update on the family’s well-being, Frushour shared that mom and cubs are thriving, with recent check-ups revealing healthy weights of 14 and 15 pounds each. The story of Ember and Ash adds a heartwarming chapter to the ongoing efforts of zoos worldwide to safeguard and preserve endangered species.