0:00:02 > 0:00:05Meet the rarest cubs in the world.
0:00:05 > 0:00:08These two baby Sumatran tigers
0:00:08 > 0:00:12offer real hope for the future of their critically endangered species.
0:00:12 > 0:00:14Hey, aren't you beautiful?
0:00:14 > 0:00:16For their first four months,
0:00:16 > 0:00:19they'll be growing up in a suburban Australian family home.
0:00:19 > 0:00:22They'll be completely reliant on foster dad
0:00:22 > 0:00:26- and tiger expert Giles Clarke. - It's good to see you too.
0:00:26 > 0:00:30To ensure their survival, he took the difficult decision to take them
0:00:30 > 0:00:34home and give them 24-hour care.
0:00:34 > 0:00:37They're going to have a slightly different upbringing
0:00:37 > 0:00:39to most normal cubs in a zoo.
0:00:41 > 0:00:46I feel a huge weight of responsibility on my shoulders.
0:00:47 > 0:00:51Now, the cubs are growing up fast
0:00:51 > 0:00:53pushing Giles to his limit.
0:00:53 > 0:00:55HE SNARLS You need to calm down.
0:00:55 > 0:00:56You're naughty!
0:00:58 > 0:01:01How will the cubs react when they meet the world's media?
0:01:01 > 0:01:03I want people to fall in love with these cubs.
0:01:03 > 0:01:07I want people to want to help us save them in the wild.
0:01:07 > 0:01:09And how will Giles cope in Sumatra
0:01:09 > 0:01:12when he sees the dangers tigers are facing?
0:01:13 > 0:01:19This is a unique and intimate look at the growing pains of tiger cubs.
0:01:19 > 0:01:23Can this zookeeper from Middlesex give these superstar cubs
0:01:23 > 0:01:25the start they need?
0:01:31 > 0:01:34Spot and Stripe are now nine weeks old
0:01:34 > 0:01:37and are halfway through their time living with Giles.
0:01:37 > 0:01:38I've just come to make sure
0:01:38 > 0:01:41no-one's rolling around in puddles. There is puddles.
0:01:41 > 0:01:44At this crucial age, tiger cubs hit a major growth spurt
0:01:44 > 0:01:47and begin to change more rapidly.
0:01:47 > 0:01:48Someone's done a wee.
0:01:48 > 0:01:52I just want to get this puddle before you guys walk in it.
0:01:52 > 0:01:54And Kerry says I can't multitask.
0:01:56 > 0:01:57OK.
0:01:58 > 0:02:00A little power nap?
0:02:02 > 0:02:07There is one particular development that Giles is studying closely.
0:02:07 > 0:02:09Let me look at those teeth.
0:02:09 > 0:02:11Whoa. Holy moly.
0:02:11 > 0:02:14They're almost ready for chewing, aren't they? Yeah!
0:02:14 > 0:02:18They're getting really, really bitey now, and chewy.
0:02:18 > 0:02:21Just the age they are, and also the fact that they are teething.
0:02:22 > 0:02:24And as they develop,
0:02:24 > 0:02:27their personalities are becoming more pronounced.
0:02:28 > 0:02:31Spike is being particularly playful today.
0:02:31 > 0:02:33Uncharacteristically, you're the one that's awake,
0:02:33 > 0:02:37and your brother spends most of the time sleeping.
0:02:37 > 0:02:38He's not as naughty as Stripe.
0:02:38 > 0:02:44Stripe is the one that plays a bit harder with you,
0:02:44 > 0:02:46being a bit bitey.
0:02:47 > 0:02:49He is tired.
0:02:49 > 0:02:52So am I.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55Oh, good. Perfect. Go to sleep.
0:02:55 > 0:02:56Yeah.
0:02:57 > 0:02:59They're just typical babies, aren't they?
0:02:59 > 0:03:04One minute they're just going crazy, and it's play, and it's all active.
0:03:04 > 0:03:06And then they're asleep within a second.
0:03:06 > 0:03:08HE LAUGHS
0:03:08 > 0:03:13The cubs are putting on a kilo a week, and now sleep every two hours
0:03:13 > 0:03:15to have enough energy to keep on growing.
0:03:18 > 0:03:20But Spot's nap is short-lived.
0:03:24 > 0:03:26It's at this final stage of teething
0:03:26 > 0:03:29that tigers become much more adventurous.
0:03:38 > 0:03:40Oh!
0:03:40 > 0:03:42That's the first time I think someone's climbed over.
0:03:46 > 0:03:50A higher fence does nothing to curb his enthusiasm.
0:03:50 > 0:03:52CHILD GIGGLES
0:03:52 > 0:03:55Much to the delight of Giles's son, eight-year-old Kynan.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57Oh, no, that's funny!
0:04:02 > 0:04:04I think they're trying to escape.
0:04:09 > 0:04:11GILES LAUGHS
0:04:15 > 0:04:18I think it's really cool that we have the cubs here.
0:04:18 > 0:04:20What's your favourite part about having them here?
0:04:20 > 0:04:22That they get to destroy the house.
0:04:22 > 0:04:25They get to...? KYNAN LAUGHS
0:04:25 > 0:04:27That's not necessarily my favourite part.
0:04:27 > 0:04:31- It's not long before Stripe has a go too.- Come on in.
0:04:31 > 0:04:32Let's see how tough you are.
0:04:35 > 0:04:39Oh, we've got a back foot on. Yep. It's all over.
0:04:39 > 0:04:41THEY LAUGH
0:04:41 > 0:04:42Cheeky.
0:04:45 > 0:04:47It's a big step for them.
0:04:47 > 0:04:50- GILES CHUFFS - And now they are both mobile,
0:04:50 > 0:04:54Giles wants to keep encouraging their natural curiosity.
0:04:58 > 0:05:01So this is the first time they've been out in the garden proper
0:05:01 > 0:05:02at home.
0:05:02 > 0:05:04I'm just letting them check it out.
0:05:04 > 0:05:07These are his first stairs, look. Woo.
0:05:11 > 0:05:13At this age in the wild,
0:05:13 > 0:05:16cubs would begin to explore the world around them,
0:05:16 > 0:05:19making short excursions outside of their den.
0:05:22 > 0:05:24What is he doing?
0:05:26 > 0:05:29I was thinking the other day just how quickly they're growing up.
0:05:29 > 0:05:31I suppose you don't really see it on a day-to-day basis,
0:05:31 > 0:05:34but they're growing up really fast
0:05:34 > 0:05:37and we're over halfway of the time of having them back at home.
0:05:39 > 0:05:43Giles has to watch their every move to keep them out of trouble.
0:05:43 > 0:05:45It's because they are so little, you know?
0:05:45 > 0:05:47In four weeks' time, it's not going to matter
0:05:47 > 0:05:49if they want to jump off the wall, whereas at the moment,
0:05:49 > 0:05:51if they jump off the wall, it's a long way to go.
0:05:51 > 0:05:54If you just think, in the last five minutes,
0:05:54 > 0:05:56it's the first time they've ever been up and down a set of stairs,
0:05:56 > 0:06:00the first time they've ever had sand underneath their feet,
0:06:00 > 0:06:04like the smells in here would be just incredible for them
0:06:04 > 0:06:06in terms of the things that they're checking out.
0:06:08 > 0:06:12It's amazing that they do so well and they're so confident.
0:06:12 > 0:06:15Giles's mission while they're living at home is to prepare them
0:06:15 > 0:06:17for a life in a wildlife park.
0:06:18 > 0:06:23So this is all good training and conditioning, and it's good exposure.
0:06:23 > 0:06:25But they're certainly not going to be tame
0:06:25 > 0:06:27and they're not going to be domesticated.
0:06:27 > 0:06:29You've always got to treat them with the utmost respect,
0:06:29 > 0:06:31and you can never be complacent.
0:06:31 > 0:06:34They're tigers, and they're predators.
0:06:34 > 0:06:37And you've always got to have that at the forefront of your mind
0:06:37 > 0:06:40when you're working with them. Because these guys are not pets.
0:06:40 > 0:06:41They wouldn't make good pets.
0:06:41 > 0:06:45I would never suggest... I would never want a tiger in my house
0:06:45 > 0:06:47when it's bigger.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49When the cubs are four months old, they will begin to live
0:06:49 > 0:06:54back at the zoo where their welfare will remain his top priority.
0:06:55 > 0:06:59We spend hours and hours and hours and hours, thousands of hours,
0:06:59 > 0:07:01training and conditioning these guys.
0:07:01 > 0:07:04It a) gives them a good quality of life, b) it allows us
0:07:04 > 0:07:08to be much, much more effective at supporting real conservation.
0:07:08 > 0:07:10But ultimately,
0:07:10 > 0:07:14the things that we can do with our tigers allows them
0:07:14 > 0:07:17to display a much, much wider natural repertoire of behaviours
0:07:17 > 0:07:21than any tiger that's just stuck in an enclosure its entire life.
0:07:27 > 0:07:31Giles is the head keeper of exotic carnivores at Australia Zoo.
0:07:31 > 0:07:36He and his team of handlers have a unique approach to animal husbandry.
0:07:38 > 0:07:42They believe that by being hands-on with tigers,
0:07:42 > 0:07:44you can improve their welfare.
0:07:46 > 0:07:50Which Giles feels is less stressful for the tigers
0:07:50 > 0:07:52and gives them a better quality of life.
0:07:55 > 0:07:58Giles's tigers benefit from daily bush walks.
0:08:01 > 0:08:05We have hundreds and hundreds of acres, which is fantastic for them.
0:08:05 > 0:08:09It is truly part of the best stimulation that we could
0:08:09 > 0:08:11possibly ever offer these animals.
0:08:12 > 0:08:16These tigers are also part of an international breeding programme.
0:08:17 > 0:08:19Because in their native Sumatra,
0:08:19 > 0:08:22these tigers are critically endangered.
0:08:24 > 0:08:27With fewer than 500 remaining,
0:08:27 > 0:08:30increased threats from deforestation and poaching could see
0:08:30 > 0:08:35the Sumatran tiger wiped out completely in less than a decade.
0:08:39 > 0:08:42But this captive population offers an insurance policy
0:08:42 > 0:08:44against extinction.
0:08:45 > 0:08:47And being at ease with people
0:08:47 > 0:08:50helps raise money for tiger conservation.
0:08:52 > 0:08:54The guests that we have behind us
0:08:54 > 0:08:57have actually contributed an extra fee on top of their gate entrance
0:08:57 > 0:09:00to be able to do this opportunity,
0:09:00 > 0:09:03and it's those funds that we generate that we're then putting back
0:09:03 > 0:09:07into trying to help save tigers in the wild through other organisations.
0:09:08 > 0:09:13Through these carefully managed experiences, Giles's tigers
0:09:13 > 0:09:18have raised nearly £1 million for conservation in the last 10 years,
0:09:18 > 0:09:21directly saving tigers in Sumatra.
0:09:25 > 0:09:29Back at home, Giles's wife Kerry is struggling to control the cubs.
0:09:29 > 0:09:33Oh, you cheeky little rat.
0:09:33 > 0:09:37- Oh!- Oh, no.- Can you help me?- OK.
0:09:38 > 0:09:41He's worked it out, so you probably just need to go in there
0:09:41 > 0:09:44and entertain him with a toy. Look.
0:09:44 > 0:09:49- Where's that big ball, Kynan? - Outside.- Outside?
0:09:50 > 0:09:51They just want to be set free.
0:09:53 > 0:09:56At this stage in the wild, cubs would be getting increasingly
0:09:56 > 0:09:59adventurous and testing everything out with their teeth.
0:10:04 > 0:10:07As Giles are starting to realise, he's going to have to
0:10:07 > 0:10:11make modifications probably every single day to compensate
0:10:11 > 0:10:14for their naughtiness. And what they're figuring out.
0:10:14 > 0:10:17I think they should be called Houdini One and Houdini Two.
0:10:17 > 0:10:20SHE LAUGHS
0:10:20 > 0:10:22And I'm being used as a play toy in the meantime!
0:10:25 > 0:10:29Spot here is usually cool, calm and collected.
0:10:29 > 0:10:30Even though he's naughty too,
0:10:30 > 0:10:34and he likes to be just as naughty as Stripe.
0:10:34 > 0:10:35But he's a bit more mellow,
0:10:35 > 0:10:39and he's the one that probably gets beaten up by his brother more so.
0:10:40 > 0:10:45Stripe's usually the one to do the naughtier things first.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47But Spot took an opportunity
0:10:47 > 0:10:50while Stripe was sleeping to beat him in something.
0:10:52 > 0:10:54Will you stop biting me?
0:10:57 > 0:11:00The cubs are now using anything and anyone
0:11:00 > 0:11:03to try out their new teeth. So Giles has a plan.
0:11:04 > 0:11:06So this morning we're going to see
0:11:06 > 0:11:09if they want to use those carnassial teeth that they've just got.
0:11:09 > 0:11:11HE SCREECHES
0:11:11 > 0:11:15Carnassial teeth are specialist molars that allow carnivores
0:11:15 > 0:11:18to slice meat efficiently.
0:11:18 > 0:11:21The fact that they've got those big chewing teeth at the back,
0:11:21 > 0:11:25the ones that slice the meat, is a good indication to me
0:11:25 > 0:11:26that they're probably at the point
0:11:26 > 0:11:29where they can start to chew their own food.
0:11:29 > 0:11:33So, if these guys were in the wild, Mum would definitely be taking them
0:11:33 > 0:11:38to where she's made a kill, and probably giving it a go themselves.
0:11:38 > 0:11:41It's a really, really big step, because if they take well to this
0:11:41 > 0:11:45this morning, then, you know, we can move on to other stuff.
0:11:47 > 0:11:50This new phase often triggers the development
0:11:50 > 0:11:52of another specific tiger behaviour.
0:11:53 > 0:11:55They might get a little bit possessive,
0:11:55 > 0:11:57if they really get into it.
0:11:57 > 0:12:01If they really like it you might see a little bit of swiping and snarling.
0:12:01 > 0:12:05- And being more food focused than his brother...- Boys...
0:12:05 > 0:12:07..Giles wants first-born Spot to give it a go.
0:12:07 > 0:12:10SPOT SNORTS You're just the one I wanted.
0:12:10 > 0:12:12Mmm. What's this?
0:12:13 > 0:12:18What is it? Are you ready? Yeah?
0:12:18 > 0:12:20Yeah?
0:12:20 > 0:12:23Excuse me! That's my hand! No.
0:12:25 > 0:12:28He got possessive straightaway. But he's using his teeth.
0:12:28 > 0:12:31He's got the idea. To the side. There we go.
0:12:32 > 0:12:35If I just let it go, he'd keep swallowing it.
0:12:35 > 0:12:37So the fact that I pull it to the side
0:12:37 > 0:12:39makes him use his carnassial teeth
0:12:39 > 0:12:44which are the ones that are designed for chewing off chunks of flesh.
0:12:44 > 0:12:46CUBS SQUABBLE
0:12:47 > 0:12:51Dearie me. I'd leave him alone for a second.
0:12:51 > 0:12:52Turned into a tiger.
0:12:53 > 0:12:55No! Ah-ah-ah...
0:12:58 > 0:12:59Good boy. It's all gone.
0:13:01 > 0:13:05- All gone!- And it's not long till Stripe has his turn.- This is Stripe.
0:13:05 > 0:13:10And Stripe normally isn't as driven for his food what Spot is anyway.
0:13:10 > 0:13:11But he's doing a good job.
0:13:12 > 0:13:16If it was the other way round, with Spot eating the piece of meat,
0:13:16 > 0:13:19he wouldn't tolerate Stripe jumping all over him like this.
0:13:19 > 0:13:21He'd be all possessive.
0:13:21 > 0:13:24So Spot's more driven for the food.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27And Stripe's giving it a go.
0:13:27 > 0:13:28Easy!
0:13:28 > 0:13:33Being possessive is completely natural.
0:13:33 > 0:13:35If they've made a kill in the wild,
0:13:35 > 0:13:37they're going to do all they can to keep it.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40They've spent a lot of energy making that kill.
0:13:40 > 0:13:44And if they don't eat, then they don't survive,
0:13:44 > 0:13:46so it's worth investing the energy in being...
0:13:49 > 0:13:52Right on the inside thigh.
0:13:52 > 0:13:55It's worth the energy invest in trying to protect it.
0:13:56 > 0:14:00Spot is the more affectionate one. Stripe is the naughtier one.
0:14:00 > 0:14:03But when it comes to food, as you can see,
0:14:03 > 0:14:07this little guy's definitely much more driven.
0:14:07 > 0:14:11Therefore it makes him a little bit more possessive.
0:14:11 > 0:14:13With the cubs getting stronger and feistier,
0:14:13 > 0:14:17their days being able to live with Giles and his family are numbered.
0:14:21 > 0:14:25At the zoo, work has been progressing on a bespoke enclosure
0:14:25 > 0:14:26for the cubs.
0:14:28 > 0:14:31Today's a real landmark for Spot and Stripe,
0:14:31 > 0:14:33with work almost complete.
0:14:33 > 0:14:37Giles is keen to show them around and make sure they feel safe
0:14:37 > 0:14:39and happy.
0:14:39 > 0:14:41Where are we? Yep, take them off.
0:14:43 > 0:14:46My main concern is obviously, this is all so completely new.
0:14:46 > 0:14:51There are going to be little things that frighten them, so even
0:14:51 > 0:14:55here you'll see the palm throngs that are blowing in the wind, on the tree.
0:14:55 > 0:14:58That's the first time he's obviously heard that particular noise.
0:15:02 > 0:15:05They're both really independent, which is fantastic, you know?
0:15:05 > 0:15:08You can see they're off already, exploring the new area.
0:15:08 > 0:15:13Stripe is particularly playful, and therefore very inquisitive.
0:15:13 > 0:15:15So he's off already.
0:15:19 > 0:15:22We need to make sure that everything and anything that we want them
0:15:22 > 0:15:26to be used to when they are older, we need to start exposing them
0:15:26 > 0:15:31to those situations and those sounds and smells and sights right now.
0:15:31 > 0:15:35- Which also means they get to know the tiger keepers too.- Jeff?
0:15:35 > 0:15:37He looks like he's really enjoying himself.
0:15:37 > 0:15:40He's exploring now, which is good to see. Checking everything out.
0:15:40 > 0:15:43The thing is, if you see them getting a little bit nervous,
0:15:43 > 0:15:47if you see them getting a little bit flighty, it's to give them
0:15:47 > 0:15:49lots of reassurance and lots of affection.
0:15:51 > 0:15:54And making sure that they're comfortable.
0:15:54 > 0:15:57See? All the scary things have gone.
0:15:59 > 0:16:03Unlike most big cats, tigers love the water,
0:16:03 > 0:16:07so Giles has built a pool to allow the cubs to cool off.
0:16:07 > 0:16:10You're going to fall in now, you watch.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13- Whey!- Oh!- Oh!
0:16:13 > 0:16:16What the hell was that?
0:16:16 > 0:16:18This week they will go on display to the public,
0:16:18 > 0:16:22and word has got out that the cubs have come for a look around.
0:16:22 > 0:16:26It's the first time they've been here. People are already trying to peep through
0:16:26 > 0:16:30- and look over the fence at the moment.- We should get them going.
0:16:30 > 0:16:33And the adventure for Spot and Stripe doesn't stop here.
0:16:33 > 0:16:36Having got used to their new enclosure,
0:16:36 > 0:16:38Giles has something else in store for them.
0:16:50 > 0:16:54At the main tiger compound, Giles and his team are full-time carers
0:16:54 > 0:16:56for 10 adult tigers,
0:16:56 > 0:17:00and Spot and Stripe are being gradually exposed to them.
0:17:00 > 0:17:02TIGER CHUFFS Ah, good boy! Good boy!
0:17:02 > 0:17:05TIGER GROANS
0:17:06 > 0:17:08Good boy.
0:17:10 > 0:17:14Seeing adult tigers through the glass is one thing.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17But their next big milestone is to socialise
0:17:17 > 0:17:20and meet one of the adults in the flesh.
0:17:20 > 0:17:22CHUFFS
0:17:23 > 0:17:26There's going to be lots and lots of interesting smells in here,
0:17:26 > 0:17:29with all the other tigers, you know. Like the big guys come through here
0:17:29 > 0:17:33on a regular basis, and it's much, much more of a sensory stimulation
0:17:33 > 0:17:36for them in here in terms of the smell than just being around
0:17:36 > 0:17:40the front of the glass, like the big tigers never go round that side.
0:17:43 > 0:17:45Get used to walking around here, boys.
0:17:45 > 0:17:48In less than a month, the cubs will be too big to live at home.
0:17:48 > 0:17:51And they need to be accepted by the adults for them
0:17:51 > 0:17:53to live here full-time.
0:17:55 > 0:17:57He's a little bit nervous, as you would expect.
0:17:57 > 0:17:59You can see he's smelling all the smells around.
0:17:59 > 0:18:03There's lots of smells of big predators, other tigers around.
0:18:03 > 0:18:05So they're going to be a little bit cautious naturally.
0:18:05 > 0:18:10In the wild, an unrelated tiger could easily injure the cubs.
0:18:10 > 0:18:13- How is she?- She's waiting.
0:18:13 > 0:18:17And Giles hopes Maneki won't display any threatening behaviours.
0:18:17 > 0:18:18Oh, who is it?
0:18:18 > 0:18:21MANEKI CHUFFS THEN BRAYS
0:18:23 > 0:18:24So this is Maneki.
0:18:27 > 0:18:29This is the very, very first time
0:18:29 > 0:18:32that Maneki has seen any cubs whatsoever.
0:18:33 > 0:18:37Tigers communicate using a range of vocalisations,
0:18:37 > 0:18:41and the most common non-threatening sound they make is called a chuff.
0:18:41 > 0:18:44THEY ALL CHUFF
0:18:47 > 0:18:49Chuffing is reassuring.
0:18:49 > 0:18:53So they're chuffing at her, they're chuffing at each other.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57So it's a reassuring type of noise. It's also a way of greeting, saying
0:18:57 > 0:18:58that she speaks your language.
0:19:00 > 0:19:02Tigers are one of the few cats in the world
0:19:02 > 0:19:04to communicate in this way.
0:19:07 > 0:19:09These guys are very inquisitive,
0:19:09 > 0:19:13so their facial expression with their ears is exactly that.
0:19:13 > 0:19:14Now he's being a bit submissive,
0:19:14 > 0:19:18the fact that he's putting his ears slightly back, he's getting down low.
0:19:18 > 0:19:22So that's just being a little bit unsure, if you like.
0:19:22 > 0:19:24Whereas Maneki, you can see how relaxed she is.
0:19:24 > 0:19:27She's sat there, she's fairly happy.
0:19:28 > 0:19:32So Stripe is getting a little bit closer.
0:19:32 > 0:19:36He's being cautious in the way in which he approaches.
0:19:36 > 0:19:38Good boy.
0:19:38 > 0:19:40You're brave! Yeah.
0:19:42 > 0:19:45Look at his face. He's very, very cautious.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48Like he wants to go up a bit closer, but he's also a little nervous.
0:19:48 > 0:19:53But that's to be expected. Look at the size of her in comparison to him.
0:19:53 > 0:19:57And she's reacting a little. She doesn't want to be surprised.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06The cubs have won over Maneki, and Giles is relieved.
0:20:08 > 0:20:10For a very first encounter,
0:20:10 > 0:20:14you couldn't have asked for it to go any better or any smoother, you know?
0:20:14 > 0:20:18No-one is being aggressive, no-one is showing over-interest,
0:20:18 > 0:20:23or too much interest. And the cubs are coping really well.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25Where is she going?
0:20:25 > 0:20:28It's probably more important that the adults are comfortable
0:20:28 > 0:20:31with any introduction than the little guys, because eventually
0:20:31 > 0:20:33when we get them out in the same space,
0:20:33 > 0:20:36I'm not going to be worried about the little guys hurting the big guys,
0:20:36 > 0:20:39but the other way round is obviously a massive consideration.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42So the fact that they've been so good,
0:20:42 > 0:20:45and it's been so positive, is a great indication.
0:20:45 > 0:20:49Come on. We'll just go straight back up this side, yeah?
0:20:49 > 0:20:51Spot and Stripe are now one step closer
0:20:51 > 0:20:53to joining the adult compound.
0:20:59 > 0:21:02Until then, they'll have all the comforts of Giles's home.
0:21:06 > 0:21:09This evening the family dogs are getting in some playtime
0:21:09 > 0:21:11with the cubs.
0:21:17 > 0:21:20Giles and the family have scheduled in a toileting session.
0:21:20 > 0:21:24SPOT GROANS
0:21:24 > 0:21:27We've got Spot. And apparently, Spot's been a bit gassy.
0:21:27 > 0:21:30SPOT BREAKS WIND LOUDLY
0:21:30 > 0:21:33There's still a bit coming.
0:21:33 > 0:21:36In the wild, a tiger mother would still lick her cub
0:21:36 > 0:21:38to stimulate them to go to the toilet.
0:21:38 > 0:21:42Giles uses a wet tissue to do the same job.
0:21:42 > 0:21:45I can't hug you any more.
0:21:45 > 0:21:49- OK, you ready?- Oh, jeez.- Good boy.
0:21:49 > 0:21:51Do you want to try? I'll hold him.
0:21:51 > 0:21:55I know I need a shower, but I'm not so sure I need a brown shower.
0:22:01 > 0:22:03Let me just cover up.
0:22:03 > 0:22:06GILES LAUGHS
0:22:06 > 0:22:08- How bad are you expecting...? - You never know!
0:22:11 > 0:22:13I could be such a novice at this stuff
0:22:13 > 0:22:17that I might end up getting it all over me and not in the bucket.
0:22:17 > 0:22:20- STRIPE SCREECHES - OK...
0:22:20 > 0:22:22- Where's your bum?- Fire away.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25- Hold his tail nearer the base. - It's all right.
0:22:25 > 0:22:28- STRIPE SCREECHES - I'm not doing it right.
0:22:28 > 0:22:30- How are you going? - Well, I kind of thought..
0:22:30 > 0:22:33HE SQUAWKS
0:22:33 > 0:22:36- I think I'm pressing the wrong button.- OK. Do you want to swap?
0:22:38 > 0:22:40I thought I was doing pretty good,
0:22:40 > 0:22:42but by the sound of it, obviously not.
0:22:45 > 0:22:47I just can't touch the right button.
0:22:47 > 0:22:49It's all in the technique.
0:22:49 > 0:22:52And you're a master of it, so I'll leave it for you.
0:22:55 > 0:23:01- Don't tell everyone my secrets. - Let's try again.- You ready?
0:23:04 > 0:23:06HE SCREECHES
0:23:06 > 0:23:09You're not very easy any more!
0:23:09 > 0:23:11I'm working up a sweat.
0:23:12 > 0:23:16He looked at that picture before and chuffed.
0:23:16 > 0:23:18That's your great, great uncle.
0:23:20 > 0:23:23I don't even think it's the right subspecies.
0:23:23 > 0:23:25After toileting, it's off to bed,
0:23:25 > 0:23:28as tomorrow there's a big day in store.
0:23:31 > 0:23:34It's six in the morning and Spot and Stripe
0:23:34 > 0:23:36are first up in the Clarke household.
0:23:50 > 0:23:53Oi! What's going on?
0:23:57 > 0:23:59What have you got? Oh, man.
0:24:02 > 0:24:05They're getting to that point now where things are just meant to be
0:24:05 > 0:24:08bitten and chewed and pulled apart. Aren't you?
0:24:10 > 0:24:15Yeah, so this is where the real fun begins. It'll be over in a sec.
0:24:15 > 0:24:19Giles is now more relaxed about them exploring on their own.
0:24:19 > 0:24:22Oooh! Boom. HE LAUGHS
0:24:23 > 0:24:25He's off. Let's go get your brother.
0:24:25 > 0:24:28I'm going to kick you guys outside.
0:24:29 > 0:24:31GILES ROARS
0:24:31 > 0:24:33But this is no ordinary morning.
0:24:33 > 0:24:37Today the tigers will face the world's media and the public.
0:24:38 > 0:24:40I thought we'd give them a little bath
0:24:40 > 0:24:43in preparation for going on display.
0:24:43 > 0:24:46Like, I usually give them a wash every couple of weeks,
0:24:46 > 0:24:47so they're about due.
0:24:53 > 0:24:55GILES CHUFFS REASSURINGLY
0:24:55 > 0:24:57Are you ready?
0:24:57 > 0:24:59Ooh!
0:25:00 > 0:25:01Ah, see?
0:25:01 > 0:25:04OK, we're going to make this really quick, buddy.
0:25:04 > 0:25:06These guys are so, so healthy.
0:25:07 > 0:25:12They've been developing so quickly, they're doing really well. See?
0:25:12 > 0:25:14Kerry's making it nice and warm for you.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17Today's press launch is designed to push home
0:25:17 > 0:25:20a critical conservation message.
0:25:20 > 0:25:22The more media we have the better, as far as I'm concerned.
0:25:22 > 0:25:25My aim is to try and raise as much support as we can
0:25:25 > 0:25:27for the tigers in the wild.
0:25:27 > 0:25:29Yeah, a huge day.
0:25:29 > 0:25:30CUB ROARS HAPPILY
0:25:30 > 0:25:32Come to the towel.
0:25:37 > 0:25:39Thanks very much for helping.
0:25:39 > 0:25:41- You want a bath too?- You ready? - No, not ready.
0:25:50 > 0:25:53Well, you're being less resistant than your brother.
0:25:56 > 0:25:59- Does it make you feel extra naughty now?- Yeah.- Now you're clean.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04I'm hoping the media launch will achieve exactly what we are
0:26:04 > 0:26:09setting out to achieve, and raise awareness. I think it's good.
0:26:09 > 0:26:12I think the whole world deserves to see these beautiful little
0:26:12 > 0:26:14creatures, and what they stand for.
0:26:14 > 0:26:18Ow, that was my leg! You're so strong.
0:26:18 > 0:26:20Don't you look beautiful in the sunlight,
0:26:20 > 0:26:22with your big, fluffy coat now?
0:26:25 > 0:26:27Let's go.
0:26:27 > 0:26:28Come on, then.
0:26:30 > 0:26:31CUB SQUEAKS
0:26:35 > 0:26:37There's someone behind you, Kynan.
0:26:41 > 0:26:45- Hello! Hello. - GILES LAUGHS
0:26:45 > 0:26:47- Did you sleep well?- Mm-hm.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51Oh, man, they're going to love all these soft toys.
0:26:57 > 0:26:59OK.
0:26:59 > 0:27:02You need to get ready for school, little man.
0:27:04 > 0:27:06Do you want to give him a kiss?
0:27:06 > 0:27:08Raaaaa!
0:27:08 > 0:27:10CUB SQUEAKS Raaaa!
0:27:10 > 0:27:12OK. Come on, then.
0:27:15 > 0:27:17Wakey, wakey.
0:27:21 > 0:27:23But today's not just about the media launch.
0:27:26 > 0:27:29The cubs are now ready to spend their days hanging out at the zoo,
0:27:29 > 0:27:31where they will have more freedom.
0:27:31 > 0:27:35HE SCREECHES Oh, my God!
0:27:35 > 0:27:38CUB SQUAWKS
0:27:38 > 0:27:41The problem with giving them more and more access outside is,
0:27:41 > 0:27:43that's where they want to be now.
0:27:43 > 0:27:45They want to be out of that room, exploring.
0:27:45 > 0:27:47CUB SCREECHES
0:27:47 > 0:27:50And they don't mind letting us know how they feel.
0:27:58 > 0:28:03At the zoo, the animals may be taking it easy, but the staff
0:28:03 > 0:28:06are busily getting everything set up for the press launch.
0:28:08 > 0:28:11Marketing manager Sarah is feeling the pressure.
0:28:13 > 0:28:14I'm very nervous.
0:28:14 > 0:28:17This is why far the biggest event I've ever helped out with
0:28:17 > 0:28:18here at the zoo,
0:28:18 > 0:28:22and to be here when they first go on display is really exciting.
0:28:22 > 0:28:24I guess it's really unpredictable working with animals,
0:28:24 > 0:28:27so we'll see how the cubs go.
0:28:27 > 0:28:30Journalists have been invited from all over Australia
0:28:30 > 0:28:32to film the cubs go on display.
0:28:34 > 0:28:36Giles is also feeling the pressure.
0:28:39 > 0:28:43Morning. Sorry. Unscheduled poo stop.
0:28:43 > 0:28:45Not for me! The cubs.
0:28:45 > 0:28:49I'm going to jump on the back of the buggy with Jeff.
0:28:49 > 0:28:54Everyone else needs to be down there at one minute to eight, not later,
0:28:54 > 0:28:56because we will be arriving
0:28:56 > 0:28:59at exactly one minute past eight o'clock. Cool.
0:28:59 > 0:29:01All right, if you want to make a start.
0:29:01 > 0:29:04You two, if you just want to come across in like three minutes.
0:29:04 > 0:29:07Giles's primary concern is the welfare of the cubs.
0:29:07 > 0:29:09GILES CHUFFS
0:29:09 > 0:29:13Are you excited? No. It makes no difference to you, does it?
0:29:14 > 0:29:16It makes no difference to you.
0:29:16 > 0:29:20- But his own nerves are also catching up with him.- OK.
0:29:22 > 0:29:26Today's one of the things that you really only get one shot at.
0:29:26 > 0:29:29There are dozens of live media outlets there.
0:29:29 > 0:29:31And if it doesn't go to plan,
0:29:31 > 0:29:34they are not going to be shy to use it and show it.
0:29:34 > 0:29:36So that's another pressure that you feel.
0:29:36 > 0:29:39It's a double-edged sword with the media.
0:29:39 > 0:29:41You sort of need them, because they're the ones
0:29:41 > 0:29:43that are going to help us get the message out there.
0:29:43 > 0:29:45But they're not loyal to you.
0:29:45 > 0:29:49So that's why it's important that we keep a very close eye on you.
0:29:51 > 0:29:53Ohhh...
0:29:53 > 0:29:57I'm tired at the moment and thinking of the stress and pressure and...
0:29:57 > 0:30:01you know, it makes me even more emotional when I look at them, but...
0:30:01 > 0:30:03If people don't just fall in love with them
0:30:03 > 0:30:06and want to help us to help them in the wild,
0:30:06 > 0:30:09then there's something wrong, isn't there?
0:30:09 > 0:30:10There's something wrong.
0:30:15 > 0:30:20As media outlets from across the country arrive, the message about
0:30:20 > 0:30:24tiger conservation has the potential to reach an international audience.
0:30:26 > 0:30:31The tiger team want to keep the stress levels low for the cubs,
0:30:31 > 0:30:33as it could make or break the event.
0:30:35 > 0:30:39With everyone in place, it's showtime.
0:30:39 > 0:30:40There's so many people here!
0:30:40 > 0:30:44They are under there. I can hear them, so...it's really exciting.
0:30:44 > 0:30:45They're coming!
0:30:47 > 0:30:51Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Australia Zoo's head of tigers,
0:30:51 > 0:30:54Giles Clark with our very special guests!
0:30:54 > 0:30:57CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:30:59 > 0:31:02As all eyes focus on Spot and Stripe...
0:31:02 > 0:31:04There's a few people here!
0:31:04 > 0:31:06..it's vital the cubs stay relaxed.
0:31:10 > 0:31:14What we are going to do, guys, first of all just stay where you are,
0:31:14 > 0:31:19while they get used to seeing so many cameras and all of you in here.
0:31:19 > 0:31:21SHUTTERS CLICK
0:31:36 > 0:31:40The cubs quickly gain confidence and start posing for the cameras.
0:31:40 > 0:31:42SHUTTERS CLICK CONSTANTLY
0:31:44 > 0:31:46LAUGHTER
0:31:46 > 0:31:47What's all that noise?!
0:31:47 > 0:31:50Alrighty, well, welcome along, guys.
0:31:50 > 0:31:54This is Stripe and is the other one is Spot.
0:31:54 > 0:31:56We will be doing cub encounters,
0:31:56 > 0:31:59where guests have the opportunity to come in and meet the cubs.
0:31:59 > 0:32:00And the good thing for us is,
0:32:00 > 0:32:02not only is that excellent conditioning
0:32:02 > 0:32:05and training for the tigers, but ultimately that's going to
0:32:05 > 0:32:09allow us to generate funds and support for tiger conservation.
0:32:10 > 0:32:13Giles can tell Spot and Stripe are relaxed,
0:32:13 > 0:32:16and invites the media to get their exclusive.
0:32:16 > 0:32:20SHUTTERS CLICK
0:32:23 > 0:32:25OK, is everyone ready?
0:32:25 > 0:32:27- REPORTER:- It's not every day you can get up close and personal
0:32:27 > 0:32:29to two very cute tiger cubs,
0:32:29 > 0:32:32something the public will have the opportunity to do as well.
0:32:32 > 0:32:33It will be a paid experience
0:32:33 > 0:32:37and all that money will go to help tiger conservation.
0:32:37 > 0:32:40The cubs should be on display for the next two months.
0:32:40 > 0:32:45After that they might be large enough to join the other tigers.
0:32:45 > 0:32:47They're doing OK.
0:32:48 > 0:32:50Phew!
0:32:50 > 0:32:55It went really well in that the cubs reacted really well towards the cameras.
0:32:55 > 0:32:57There were so many people here but they went really well.
0:32:57 > 0:33:00They were wandering around interacting with the media,
0:33:00 > 0:33:01which is just what we wanted.
0:33:02 > 0:33:04With the press gone,
0:33:04 > 0:33:08the public flood in for their first chance to see Spot and Stripe.
0:33:10 > 0:33:12The whole day so far has been brilliant.
0:33:12 > 0:33:15The fact that we rock up and there must be at least 50 or 60 people
0:33:15 > 0:33:19already here five minutes before they go on display.
0:33:19 > 0:33:22So...it's been a really good morning.
0:33:22 > 0:33:26Those images that they were getting of the cubs playing
0:33:26 > 0:33:29with each other and interacting, it should actually go national and,
0:33:29 > 0:33:33fingers crossed, might even start to get some exposure going as well.
0:33:33 > 0:33:38Which is great. I don't care how it's out there as long as we get it out there.
0:33:38 > 0:33:41The cubs will now spend their days in the new enclosure,
0:33:41 > 0:33:45but nights will still be spent with Giles and the family.
0:33:46 > 0:33:49With the excitement of press day behind them,
0:33:49 > 0:33:52the next morning it's back to reality.
0:33:52 > 0:33:54Oh, dear. It's not even 5.30 in the morning
0:33:54 > 0:33:58and someone's got the runs a little. It's not really bad.
0:34:00 > 0:34:02CUB SCREECHES
0:34:02 > 0:34:04It's all in a day's work for tiger dad Giles.
0:34:07 > 0:34:10It's not diarrhoea, it's just loose.
0:34:10 > 0:34:13But they finger-painted it all around the room.
0:34:13 > 0:34:15So, nice!
0:34:16 > 0:34:20Giles lately, with the media launch
0:34:20 > 0:34:24and getting the cubs prepared for their little TV debut,
0:34:24 > 0:34:27it's all been a bit stressful, but...
0:34:28 > 0:34:29..he worked through it.
0:34:31 > 0:34:37As cute as they are, Spot and Stripe don't half make a mess.
0:34:37 > 0:34:41This is just adding a different dimension to the smell in the house.
0:34:41 > 0:34:43Yuck! Look at that.
0:34:45 > 0:34:49They're just like any normal two tiger cubs -
0:34:49 > 0:34:54they poo and wee and - eurgh! - demand my attention 24 hours a day.
0:34:54 > 0:34:57The washing machine is going constantly here.
0:34:57 > 0:34:59No, stay there. It's yucky.
0:35:05 > 0:35:06But they are worth it
0:35:06 > 0:35:10and their rapid development makes up for everything.
0:35:11 > 0:35:15They love being off the ground, being up a bit higher.
0:35:15 > 0:35:17Even though they are cute and playful,
0:35:17 > 0:35:19they are acting like small tigers.
0:35:23 > 0:35:26They've got so much already hard-wired into them,
0:35:26 > 0:35:28it just blows you away.
0:35:33 > 0:35:37Instinctively, they already know how to stalk,
0:35:37 > 0:35:40and that's a process they would use if they were in the wild
0:35:40 > 0:35:44eventually, when they were going to go off and catch their own prey.
0:35:46 > 0:35:49They're developing so quickly and they're so strong and so healthy.
0:35:49 > 0:35:54Healthy, not just physically healthy, but mentally, they're developing
0:35:54 > 0:35:58exactly how I would want them to, so they're doing really, really well.
0:36:02 > 0:36:06In the wild, tigers only become truly accomplished hunters
0:36:06 > 0:36:10when they reach three years old.
0:36:10 > 0:36:14They hunt alone, stalking and then ambushing their prey.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19Learning is all done through play at this age.
0:36:23 > 0:36:25That was a proper fight!
0:36:32 > 0:36:36The Clarks' easy-going dogs are being used as target practice.
0:36:38 > 0:36:42Caesar and Ruby are too big to be in any real danger.
0:36:45 > 0:36:49But around the house no-one and nothing is safe,
0:36:49 > 0:36:52no matter how inanimate.
0:36:57 > 0:36:59The way they are going... CUB SCREECHES
0:36:59 > 0:37:02Oooh! I don't think the sofa is going to last
0:37:02 > 0:37:05much more than a few more days.
0:37:05 > 0:37:08By this stage in the wild, Mum would be taking them to carcasses.
0:37:08 > 0:37:12So the way you see them pulling the side of the sofa there
0:37:12 > 0:37:15is exactly the way they would interact with a carcass in the wild.
0:37:15 > 0:37:17There's...
0:37:17 > 0:37:21so many facets to their behaviour when you're watching them
0:37:21 > 0:37:24that you can clearly see is instinctual.
0:37:24 > 0:37:27But how do they know to do that?
0:37:27 > 0:37:30Clearly, I'm not biting and pulling at the sofa,
0:37:30 > 0:37:32so I'M not showing them.
0:37:43 > 0:37:47Giles and the cubs have an important visitor today - Chris Shepherd,
0:37:47 > 0:37:50the regional director of Traffic International,
0:37:50 > 0:37:54a charity combating the illegal wildlife trade.
0:37:54 > 0:37:57Having spent over two decades undercover,
0:37:57 > 0:38:01he has the latest information about wild tigers.
0:38:01 > 0:38:06In general, wildlife trade is... far worse now than it's ever been.
0:38:06 > 0:38:09We're seeing things get increasingly worse every year.
0:38:09 > 0:38:13What's the situation looking like for tigers in Sumatra?
0:38:13 > 0:38:16We're hearing of a lot more trade coming out of Sumatra,
0:38:16 > 0:38:19we're hearing of more snares in protected areas.
0:38:19 > 0:38:22In fact a lot of people on the ground there are saying
0:38:22 > 0:38:24there are more snares there than ever before.
0:38:24 > 0:38:26We're hearing of skins coming out, bones coming out,
0:38:26 > 0:38:32meat coming out, even live tigers coming out. And that's for export.
0:38:32 > 0:38:36There's also a demand for stuffed tigers in Indonesia
0:38:36 > 0:38:39and it's just wiping them out.
0:38:39 > 0:38:42There's estimates of 400-500 tigers, but...
0:38:43 > 0:38:45..that's not a lot of tigers.
0:38:45 > 0:38:46Many of them are isolated,
0:38:46 > 0:38:50so every lost tiger is one step closer to extinction.
0:38:50 > 0:38:52Yeah.
0:38:52 > 0:38:55Giles sends funds raised at the zoo
0:38:55 > 0:38:59to a conservation project in Sumatra
0:38:59 > 0:39:04and is keen to see for himself just how bad the situation has become.
0:39:12 > 0:39:13He's a jungle boy!
0:39:13 > 0:39:15ALL LAUGH
0:39:15 > 0:39:20Most men go into their man cave and go to the pub or drink beer
0:39:20 > 0:39:22but he doesn't do that, he goes to the jungle.
0:39:22 > 0:39:24Whilst Spot and Stripe won't be here,
0:39:24 > 0:39:28I'll definitely miss their cute little faces, but I'm certainly not
0:39:28 > 0:39:33going to miss doing tonnes of washing towels every day.
0:39:33 > 0:39:36KYNAN LAUGHS I'm not that messy!
0:39:36 > 0:39:38Done.
0:39:40 > 0:39:43You behave yourself. No cubbies for a week.
0:39:52 > 0:39:55With the cubs staying with another keeper,
0:39:55 > 0:40:00Giles is heading to the island of Sumatra, in the west of Indonesia.
0:40:05 > 0:40:09But in the last decade, pressure has increased on wildlife here
0:40:09 > 0:40:12and tiger numbers have plummeted.
0:40:12 > 0:40:15Giles meets up with his good friends
0:40:15 > 0:40:18at Fauna & Flora International's tiger protection unit,
0:40:18 > 0:40:21a project that combats tiger poaching
0:40:21 > 0:40:25and protects tiger habitat through regular patrols.
0:40:29 > 0:40:34So, Spot and Stripe are back at the zoo and they're with Geoff.
0:40:34 > 0:40:35I miss them like crazy,
0:40:35 > 0:40:39but those little guys are now doing an amazing job at generating
0:40:39 > 0:40:43some funds, which we're going to be ploughing back into this project.
0:40:43 > 0:40:46This is where it comes back to, trying to protect the tiger,
0:40:46 > 0:40:50trying to protect its habitat, and so it's really important that we
0:40:50 > 0:40:55see first-hand and how we can best assist the programme to be effective.
0:40:55 > 0:41:01It is a crisis and Sumatra is really on the front line of that situation.
0:41:02 > 0:41:04Time is running out.
0:41:04 > 0:41:07The tiger is on a knife edge and, in this particular area,
0:41:07 > 0:41:11it's in large enough numbers where it's viable.
0:41:11 > 0:41:14We still have a really good fighting chance of saving the tiger
0:41:14 > 0:41:17in its natural habitat here.
0:41:17 > 0:41:23Giles is in West Sumatra, on his way to Kerinci Seblat,
0:41:23 > 0:41:26one of the largest national parks in Southeast Asia.
0:41:26 > 0:41:31Home to 170 individuals, almost half the remaining population.
0:41:31 > 0:41:36It is considered to be the last stronghold of the Sumatran tiger.
0:41:41 > 0:41:44On arrival, he is presented with the alarming reality.
0:41:46 > 0:41:48Look at these ones!
0:41:48 > 0:41:51Look at all these snares here,
0:41:51 > 0:41:53and that's not even all the snares from this year.
0:41:53 > 0:41:55And in the last two years,
0:41:55 > 0:42:01the patrol team have seen these tiger traps increase by 600%.
0:42:01 > 0:42:04Their work to remove them has never been more vital.
0:42:06 > 0:42:08The guys are getting ready to go on patrol.
0:42:08 > 0:42:10There's going to be two patrols
0:42:10 > 0:42:12and we are now just on the edge of the park.
0:42:12 > 0:42:15Literally, across that river behind us is the national park.
0:42:15 > 0:42:18So they are going to be crossing the river to start their patrol.
0:42:19 > 0:42:22Giles is going to join them just for today.
0:42:22 > 0:42:26But a standard jungle patrol can be up to two weeks,
0:42:26 > 0:42:29with each ranger having to carry on their backs
0:42:29 > 0:42:31everything they might need.
0:42:35 > 0:42:38This national park is over 13,000 square kilometres.
0:42:38 > 0:42:43Spanning four provinces, it's almost the size of Northern Ireland.
0:42:45 > 0:42:48Literally on the other side of the river there's wild tigers.
0:42:51 > 0:42:53Before being able to do any work,
0:42:53 > 0:42:57Giles is quick to realise it's not your average commute.
0:42:57 > 0:43:01I reckon the river is 30 metres. It's got some power behind it.
0:43:01 > 0:43:04They've got to get over the other side and...
0:43:04 > 0:43:06You can see the way it's flowing, it's no easy feat
0:43:06 > 0:43:08so they are using a zip line.
0:43:10 > 0:43:14I'd rather go above it than through it, so...let's give it a go.
0:43:15 > 0:43:17If Kerri was here, she'd have kittens!
0:43:17 > 0:43:20HE LAUGHS
0:43:20 > 0:43:21OK, ready.
0:43:21 > 0:43:23This will be the hard bit, I reckon, letting go.
0:43:26 > 0:43:28HE LAUGHS I'll go next!
0:43:28 > 0:43:31Kynan would love this.
0:43:31 > 0:43:34He be like, "Oh, that's awesome!"
0:43:35 > 0:43:38Whoo!
0:43:55 > 0:43:57Inside the forest, the vegetation
0:43:57 > 0:44:01is so dense it's hard to cover more than a few kilometres a day.
0:44:03 > 0:44:05And tigers are so elusive,
0:44:05 > 0:44:10they have only experienced a handful of sightings in the last ten years.
0:44:19 > 0:44:22Heading deeper in, they pick up a tiger trail
0:44:22 > 0:44:26and want to illustrate how lethal the situation has become.
0:44:28 > 0:44:32The guys are busy putting together a snare, to demonstrate to us
0:44:32 > 0:44:35exactly how a tiger snare, you know, works.
0:44:37 > 0:44:41We'll take a look in a second and just see how brutal they really are.
0:44:41 > 0:44:45They've definitely seen an increase in threat
0:44:45 > 0:44:48over the last couple of years and they are finding more
0:44:48 > 0:44:51and more snares that are being specifically set for tigers.
0:44:51 > 0:44:54They're professionals and they're going out
0:44:54 > 0:44:56and setting long lines of tiger snares.
0:44:56 > 0:44:59So on one ridge trail the other day, the unit
0:44:59 > 0:45:02found eight tiger snares in one line. So that's eight different chances.
0:45:02 > 0:45:04Even if it misses one or two, you know,
0:45:04 > 0:45:07it's a game of Russian roulette for them.
0:45:12 > 0:45:13Giles!
0:45:22 > 0:45:25HE SPEAKS INDONESIAN LANGUAGE
0:45:26 > 0:45:27Yeah.
0:45:29 > 0:45:31The logs are to help direct where the paws go.
0:45:31 > 0:45:36If a tiger steps on the trap, this cable system engages.
0:45:36 > 0:45:37So the more the tiger struggles,
0:45:37 > 0:45:41all three of the cables will get tighter and tighter
0:45:41 > 0:45:45and tighter and completely restrict the flow of blood.
0:45:45 > 0:45:47They cut right through to the bone.
0:45:47 > 0:45:51There's even been cases where tigers have either chewed their own paw
0:45:51 > 0:45:56off to escape, or it's cut completely through and their paws have come off.
0:45:57 > 0:45:59Now they are disguising it a little bit
0:45:59 > 0:46:01and you'll see just how quickly it will disappear.
0:46:01 > 0:46:03The better you disguise it,
0:46:03 > 0:46:06the greater your chance of catching something.
0:46:06 > 0:46:10So you can see just how effective it is even just after not even a minute.
0:46:11 > 0:46:14We know it's there and you can hardly see it!
0:46:14 > 0:46:17- You ready?- Yeah. - Let's give it a go, test.
0:46:18 > 0:46:20Everyone ready?
0:46:26 > 0:46:29You can... You can just feel the resistance of that.
0:46:29 > 0:46:31It is even starting to cut into the wood.
0:46:32 > 0:46:34And then come...
0:46:35 > 0:46:37Like that.
0:46:37 > 0:46:41Yeah, yeah. So, effectively, they are then up in the air with one foot.
0:46:41 > 0:46:45Absolutely no way you would release that if you are struggling.
0:46:45 > 0:46:48Imagine that being a tiger's paw.
0:46:49 > 0:46:53He or she would now be freaking out with its leg strung up in the air.
0:46:53 > 0:46:57Its fate is sealed, it's doomed, you know?
0:46:57 > 0:47:00In an incredibly agonising way.
0:47:00 > 0:47:04They are barbaric. They are just...barbaric.
0:47:04 > 0:47:08To think of one of the cats that I have a relationship with
0:47:08 > 0:47:10being caught in a snare is...
0:47:10 > 0:47:11is beyond contention.
0:47:12 > 0:47:15This thing is so strong that if it was Spot or Stripe,
0:47:15 > 0:47:17they'd be off the ground.
0:47:18 > 0:47:21It's more than upsetting, you know. It's more than upsetting.
0:47:24 > 0:47:28It just gives you even more renewed resolve
0:47:28 > 0:47:32and commitment to want to support these guys.
0:47:32 > 0:47:34- That's it.- Ugh.
0:47:34 > 0:47:38As the rangers remove the snare completely,
0:47:38 > 0:47:41Giles reflects on his two young cubs at home.
0:47:41 > 0:47:45It is a very sobering thought to think that Spot and Stripe
0:47:45 > 0:47:50are just starting their lives, and by the time they come to
0:47:50 > 0:47:54the end of their lives, tigers could be completely gone in these forests.
0:47:54 > 0:47:56Gone for good.
0:47:57 > 0:48:02While Giles is learning about the plight of wild tigers,
0:48:02 > 0:48:064,000 miles away in Australia,
0:48:06 > 0:48:10their captive cousins are attracting a huge number of visitors.
0:48:11 > 0:48:15All this hard work by the tigers and the keepers is geared towards
0:48:15 > 0:48:18raising vital funds for conservation.
0:48:37 > 0:48:39CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:48:39 > 0:48:43Once a day, the tiger handlers showcase the awe-inspiring skills
0:48:43 > 0:48:45of this apex predator.
0:48:45 > 0:48:49CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:48:51 > 0:48:55And in return, ask that people help save them in the wild.
0:48:57 > 0:49:02People, you can do a great deal to actually try and help save this species
0:49:02 > 0:49:04and support a programme in Indonesia
0:49:04 > 0:49:07run by Fauna & Flora International.
0:49:07 > 0:49:09There's all sorts of photographs there.
0:49:09 > 0:49:13We also have the most popular, the wristbands.
0:49:13 > 0:49:16Would you believe 5 will save one tiger in the wild for one day.
0:49:16 > 0:49:19The money will go back into conservation.
0:49:19 > 0:49:21It's a very worthwhile cause.
0:49:21 > 0:49:25But the big draw at the zoo now are Spot and Stripe...
0:49:29 > 0:49:32..who are doing their best to win over the public.
0:49:35 > 0:49:37Would anyone like to buy a tiger band for conservation?
0:49:37 > 0:49:41100% goes to the tigers. Nothing goes to our zoo.
0:49:43 > 0:49:46And with carefully managed photo opportunities...
0:49:46 > 0:49:50The cubs are generating more funding to directly support
0:49:50 > 0:49:52the patrol teams in Sumatra.
0:49:52 > 0:49:53Thank you.
0:49:53 > 0:49:58For Spot and Stripe, it's just something else they take in their stride.
0:49:58 > 0:50:01Thank you very much. Thank you so much.
0:50:06 > 0:50:09In Sumatra, Giles has come to the office headquarters
0:50:09 > 0:50:12at the national park.
0:50:12 > 0:50:16Another key role of the tiger patrol unit is to take
0:50:16 > 0:50:17possession of illegal items.
0:50:19 > 0:50:22And they want to show Giles some of these confiscations.
0:50:23 > 0:50:27So is it always in a secure place? Always locked?
0:50:29 > 0:50:33The field manager wants to show him how bad the situation has become.
0:50:34 > 0:50:37They'd be worth a lot of money on the black market,
0:50:37 > 0:50:40so they keep them really secure, under lock and key.
0:50:42 > 0:50:45These look like confiscated weapons.
0:50:47 > 0:50:52You can see how basic they are. Some of them almost look handmade.
0:50:52 > 0:50:56The use of tigers in traditional medicines has contributed
0:50:56 > 0:51:00to a 95% drop in wild tiger numbers globally.
0:51:01 > 0:51:04And the demand for parts within Sumatra
0:51:04 > 0:51:07and overseas is continuing to grow.
0:51:09 > 0:51:12The global illegal wildlife trade is now worth
0:51:12 > 0:51:15an estimated £10 billion a year.
0:51:16 > 0:51:21Pushing it into the top five largest international crimes.
0:51:22 > 0:51:24Devoting his life to tigers,
0:51:24 > 0:51:28seeing this for the first time brings it all home.
0:51:29 > 0:51:31That's a cub.
0:51:32 > 0:51:36Spot and Stripe going to be that size in only six months.
0:51:41 > 0:51:44Looks like a full-grown male skin.
0:51:44 > 0:51:48- Is this male or female? - Female.- Female.
0:51:56 > 0:52:01Charles asks what happened to the poachers that killed these tigers.
0:52:20 > 0:52:24They can get five years, but in reality they just get months.
0:52:24 > 0:52:26Yes.
0:52:26 > 0:52:27It's disgusting.
0:52:31 > 0:52:35They've been reduced to nothing. In a bin bag. In a plastic bin.
0:52:37 > 0:52:40You look at the little one...
0:52:40 > 0:52:43I suppose that's particularly hard because he think of how little
0:52:43 > 0:52:46and vulnerable Spot and Stripe are...
0:52:47 > 0:52:52Can you imagine them being caught in a snare? Just the fear and...
0:52:53 > 0:52:55..agony and you know...
0:52:55 > 0:52:58And they can be there for days.
0:53:00 > 0:53:03She almost cut her own foot off pulling so hard
0:53:03 > 0:53:05against the wire snare.
0:53:09 > 0:53:12The sheer volume of parts has shocked Giles.
0:53:17 > 0:53:20There's more than four tigers on this porch here.
0:53:21 > 0:53:23That represents more than one per cent
0:53:23 > 0:53:25of the remaining tiger population.
0:53:26 > 0:53:29The people that they arrested did get punished,
0:53:29 > 0:53:34even though none of us think it's sufficient enough.
0:53:36 > 0:53:38This here, look.
0:53:38 > 0:53:42It's cut right through her pad, right through her paw.
0:53:42 > 0:53:45The only thing that stopped that snare going all the way
0:53:45 > 0:53:46through her foot is the bone.
0:53:49 > 0:53:51Makes me think of all of our tigers, you know.
0:53:51 > 0:53:53I suppose...
0:53:54 > 0:53:56..all those cats...
0:53:58 > 0:54:00..are like my friends, you know.
0:54:02 > 0:54:04You wouldn't want to imagine this on...
0:54:06 > 0:54:08..on anyone you care about, so...
0:54:10 > 0:54:12It just makes me angry.
0:54:29 > 0:54:31Before Giles leaves Indonesia,
0:54:31 > 0:54:34he wants to share something special with the patrol team.
0:54:34 > 0:54:38Tiger numbers are so low that many of them
0:54:38 > 0:54:40have never seen an animal in the wild.
0:54:40 > 0:54:42OK, these are the babies.
0:54:42 > 0:54:44OOHING AND AAHING
0:54:44 > 0:54:46GILES LAUGHS
0:54:46 > 0:54:50- Spot and Stripe.- Spot and...? - Stripe.- Stripe.- Yeah.
0:54:50 > 0:54:52GILES CHUCKLES
0:54:52 > 0:54:55He drinks out of a baby's bottle. THEY LAUGH
0:54:56 > 0:55:00When there were born, they weighed one kilo.
0:55:00 > 0:55:04At 12 weeks, they are 13 kilos.
0:55:04 > 0:55:07- Can you see his claw?- Yes.
0:55:07 > 0:55:10He's biting the top of the camera.
0:55:10 > 0:55:12HE CHUCKLES
0:55:13 > 0:55:16- You see?- Oh, yes. - She's giving birth.
0:55:16 > 0:55:19OOHING AND AAHING
0:55:35 > 0:55:36Finish.
0:55:41 > 0:55:44Always makes me cry watching them. Can't help it.
0:55:44 > 0:55:46Especially when I see Spot.
0:55:48 > 0:55:50It's cool.
0:55:51 > 0:55:53HE SIGHS
0:56:00 > 0:56:03Giles returns home and after the horrors of Sumatra
0:56:03 > 0:56:06he's desperate to see the cubs again.
0:56:08 > 0:56:11The naughty boys are coming home today.
0:56:11 > 0:56:13I'm kind of feeling like they're just going to be more
0:56:13 > 0:56:15destructive than ever.
0:56:17 > 0:56:20- Yeah, they're here! - Oh, yay!
0:56:20 > 0:56:21Want to come and see them?
0:56:23 > 0:56:27- How are you doing? - How are you feeling?- Oh, average.
0:56:27 > 0:56:30- All right? - CUBS SCREECH
0:56:30 > 0:56:32It's been awesome having the guys.
0:56:32 > 0:56:34Come on.
0:56:34 > 0:56:35Yeah, I know.
0:56:37 > 0:56:39GILES CHUFFS
0:56:40 > 0:56:42It's good to see you too!
0:56:42 > 0:56:43Let's go.
0:56:46 > 0:56:47GILES CHUFFS
0:56:47 > 0:56:50I finally got him, Dad.
0:56:50 > 0:56:51RIPPING
0:56:51 > 0:56:52He's so much stronger!
0:56:55 > 0:56:57They change really quickly at this age
0:56:57 > 0:57:00and a week makes a big difference, so they are going
0:57:00 > 0:57:03to be playing rougher and rougher and they are bigger and stronger.
0:57:03 > 0:57:07KYNAN LAUGHS Look at his ears! He's got his ears right back.
0:57:07 > 0:57:10They're solid, aren't they?
0:57:11 > 0:57:14It is just chaos. Isn't it just chaos?
0:57:14 > 0:57:17Oh, it's so good to see him!
0:57:17 > 0:57:18KYNAN LAUGHS
0:57:18 > 0:57:20Crazy, isn't it? It's just chaos!
0:57:25 > 0:57:29But the joy of the reunion gives way to anxiety.
0:57:29 > 0:57:32A problem Giles thought he saw first signs of has now become
0:57:32 > 0:57:35much more noticeable.
0:57:35 > 0:57:39So this is Spot. Spot's the one that...
0:57:39 > 0:57:42has developed an eye condition.
0:57:43 > 0:57:47You can clearly see he's got an opaqueness in his eyes.
0:57:47 > 0:57:49So we'll talk to the specialist in the next day or two
0:57:49 > 0:57:53and I'll get first-hand a bit more information from her
0:57:53 > 0:57:55and what we're going to do about it.
0:57:55 > 0:57:58He still seems as playful as ever and it's not affecting him at all.
0:58:00 > 0:58:03I don't believe how much feistier they are in a week!
0:58:03 > 0:58:08Next time, the cubs develop a new repertoire of tiger behaviours.
0:58:10 > 0:58:13And begin to outgrow the Clark household.
0:58:13 > 0:58:16This coming week is going to be the last, I think.
0:58:16 > 0:58:17He's getting angry!
0:58:17 > 0:58:18SNARLING
0:58:20 > 0:58:24But there is a major setback for Spot, as his eye condition worsens
0:58:24 > 0:58:29and an operation to correct it soon becomes a battle to save his life.