Memphis Zoo Named Two Sumatran Tiger Cubs
The zoo revealed the names Boneka and Kari following a public vote conducted in September.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Wildlife
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The Memphis Zoo has officially named its two female Sumatran tiger cubs Boneka and Kari. The names were selected via a public voting process that featured six options.
Why it matters
The naming honors entertainer Dolly Parton and actor Tim Curry, drawing public attention to the critically endangered species. These births represent a vital contribution to the global population of captive Sumatran tigers.
The public selected names from six provided choices during a voting period that ran from September 5 to September 15. The zoo currently cares for the cubs alongside their parents, Dari and Badar.
The players
Memphis Zoo
This AZA-accredited facility in Memphis, Tennessee, houses a diverse collection of animals and participates in various global species survival programs.
Dolly Parton
She is a renowned American singer, songwriter, and philanthropist whose cultural influence led to the selection of the name Boneka for one of the cubs.
Tim Curry
He is an accomplished English actor and singer known for his expansive body of work in film, television, and theater.
The details
Born on August 12, the cubs were discovered during the birth process by veterinary staff at the Memphis Zoo. Boneka was selected to honor Dolly Parton, while Kari was chosen to honor Tim Curry, with the official announcement taking place at a football game.
Timeline
August 12, 2026: The Sumatran tiger cubs were born.
September 5, 2026: Public voting for the names officially opened.
September 15, 2026: The public voting period closed.
September 19, 2026: The zoo announced the names at a football game.
Deeper Dive
The birth of these cubs supports the ongoing efforts of the Species Survival Plan for Sumatran tigers to maintain a sustainable and genetically healthy population in human care. This event follows a pattern set by global conservation programs aimed at preventing the extinction of the world's remaining wild tiger populations.
Residents and visitors can expect updates regarding when the cubs will be old enough to venture out into their exhibit. The zoo will likely announce public viewing schedules in the coming months as the animals continue to grow.
The takeaway
These births highlight the importance of captive breeding programs for critically endangered species. Visitors are encouraged to keep track of the Memphis Zoo's official channels for updates on when the cubs will be available for public viewing.
Further reading
Learn more about local conservation efforts in our Wildlife section.
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