YOUNG tiger and red panda cubs have enjoyed their first taste of Christmas.
The animals, living at West Midlands Safari Park, were given special festive treats by keepers to mark their first Christmas, with tasty snacks hidden inside sacks and stockings.
The 11-month-old Sumatran tiger cubs -- Nova, Nadirah and Naresh -- joined their older sister Lestari and mother Dourga in tearing into personalised Santa sacks filled with straw and fish.
Angela Potter, head of wildlife at West Midlands Safari Park, said: "Christmas is an exciting time of year for everyone and our animals are no exception.
"The keepers ensure that all the animals in our care get some Christmas cheer in the form of species-appropriate gifts and treats.
"This special enrichment promotes natural behaviours, novel stimuli and opportunities for problem solving."
Meanwhile, the park's six-month-old red panda twins Nikisha and Nadiya, along with parents Sanka and Mei Lin, were given stockings filled with bamboo, straw, sweet potato and sweetcorn.
Ms Potter said: "These activities enhance welfare for our animals and what is cuter than red pandas with their own Christmas stockings?!"
While the tigers were playful and animated, the red pandas took a more delicate approach, carefully inspecting their stockings and gently removing each treat.
The enrichment is designed to stimulate the animals' natural curiosity and problem-solving skills while introducing them to new scents, textures and experiences.
Despite the festive season, the park's wildlife teams continue their work as usual, caring for the animals every day of the year.
Ms Potter said: "Christmas is just another normal working day for the wildlife keepers.
"They will be on site to ensure the animals are clean, warm and that they are well fed before they head off home for their own, late Christmas dinner.
"We cannot thank them enough for their dedication to our animals, not just over the Christmas period but throughout the whole year."
Guests visiting over the winter season may spot other animals around the Park investigating their festive surprises, both on the Safari Drive or in the walk-through areas