Animal Kingdom Throws a Birthday Bash for Bakso the Tiger Cub
Bakso, Animal Kingdom’s favorite Sumatran tiger cub, celebrated his first birthday earlier today. We weren’t able to enjoy the festivities, but plenty of vloggers and bloggers visited the Maharajah Jungle Trek to take part. Evan Patel, an Animal Kingdom Cast Member (and one of our favorite theme park photographers), was also on hand.
Great morning celebrating the birthday boy and his mom at this beautiful place. It’s unfortunate that it’s still so hot and humid but it was still a great time watching Bakso be confused about why there’s so many people and so many ice sculptures! pic.twitter.com/u8M3lFqBCo
— Evan Patel (@EvanPatel11) September 26, 2025
Bakso’s caregivers threw an awesome party, decorating his habitat with frozen sculptures and colorful balls painted like animal faces. They even “baked” him an ice cake. Cast Members also signed his birthday banner.
The sculptures and other birthday treats are important enrichment for Bakso. Enrichment stimulates natural behaviors in zoo animals. It also makes guests say “aww” when Bakso and his mom, Sohni, play with the items. Disney shared highlights from the party on Instagram.
Bakso has captured the hearts of many Animal Kingdom visitors. And for good reason. Yes, he’s beyond adorable, but his birth was also an important moment for Sumatran tigers. Fewer than 600 remain in the wild. Disney’s collaboration with the Association of Zoos & Aquarium’s Species Survival Plan (SSP) to bolster Sumatran populations was a win-win for the species and guests alike.
Be sure to visit Bakso and the rest of Maharajah Jungle Trek’s beautiful animals the next time you’re in the park. Better yet, book Caring for Giants or Up Close with Rhinos. Both tours are exceptional, and your money goes to Disney’s conservation efforts.
Read more: We Finally Met Bakso, Animal Kingdom’s Baby Sumatran Tiger
