Second tiger cub dies at Calgary zoo

A second newborn Siberian tiger cub has died at the Calgary zoo.

Staff believe the cub succumbed to complications from severe head trauma, similar injuries to its sibling who died shortly after birth.

The pair were born overnight Monday to 10 year old Katja.  It was a surprise because the tiger showed no outward signs she was pregnant.

The zoo says their veterinary team provided round-the-clock care and is devastated with the death. Vets had put the cub's odds of survival at 50 per cent or less.

Dr. Sandie Black, Head of Veterinary Services says the fact that one in three Siberian cubs die shortly after birth is little consolation.

Katja was born at the Calgary Zoo in 2000 and is a first time mother.