Tiger Territory

Find out all about the eldest male resident of ZSL London Zoo's Sumatran tiger exhibit Tiger Territory.

Jae Jae is a handsome male Sumatran tiger with a unique and eye-catching ruff of fur.

Born in San Francisco Zoo, Jae Jae moved to Akron Zoo, Ohio with his brothers Kami Sambol, and Burung when they were all a year old.

In autumn 2012, Jae Jae went the distance for love, travelling to his new home in ZSL London Zoo to meet female tiger Melati as part of the global breeding programme for this critically endangered species.

After successful introductions by zookeepers it was clear Jae Jae and feisty Australian Melati were a good match and the relaxed Romeo is quite smitten with the lady in his life.

On 3 February 2014, Jae Jae became a dad to Nakal, Budi and Cinta - vital additions to the international breeding programme for this critically endangered species. The trio were moved to other zoos at the beginning of 2016 to start their own breeding groups.

He became a dad again on June 27 2016 to cubs Achilles and Karis.

Jae Jae loves trying out new things and is always up for an adventure – be that bravely checking out a new paddock or getting to grips with a new toy. Quickly capturing the hearts of his keepers, Jae Jae is a fast learner and friendly to all he meets.

Jae Jae loves showing off his climbing skills on the five metre tall feeding pole – and he loves it even more when there’s a tasty treat at the top.

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Find out all about the female resident of ZSL London Zoo's exhibit Tiger Territory.

Melati is a young female Sumatran tiger with delicate feminine features. She is noticeably smaller than male Jae Jae.

Moving to ZSL London Zoo from the west coast of Australia, Melati lived in Perth Zoo with her twin brother Jaya until she was two years old, when they were moved into separate enclosures.

Her father Hari was born at ZSL London Zoo, so she’s returning to her British roots.

Zookeepers say that Melati is an intelligent and careful cat – taking her time to assess situations before jumping in paws-first. Unlike her roommate Jae Jae, Melati prefers to get to know people before deciding whether she likes them but she’s a loyal friend once she does.

Tigers live in a world of smells and keepers regularly spray perfume around Tiger Territory as enrichment for the big cats. Melati is a girls’ girl through and through – her favourite scent is the ultra- feminine Chanel No.5.

On the 3 February 2014, Melati gave birth to three cubs, Nakal, Budi and Cinta - vital new additions to the international breeding programme for this critically endangered species. The trio were moved to other zoos at the start of 2016 to start their own breeding groups.

She became a mum again on 27 June 2016 to cubs Achilles and Karis.