The patter of tiny paws... meet the tiger cub whose species depends on his survival

He may be small but this little big cat has some huge hopes resting on him.

Conservationists believe the tiny South China Tiger cub could help to save his species from extinction.

He was born on Friday to a pair of zoo tigers from China which had been sent to Laohu Valley Reserve in South Africa to breed.

Cathay and her mate Tiger Woods – named after the US golfer – are being taught how to survive in the wild at the reserve.

Tiger Woods Jnr enjoys a drink of milk at the reserve

It's hoped that Tiger Woods Jnr could help to save his species from extinction.

The eventual aim is to return their offspring, like junior here, to China, where the animals will live in the wild.

Fewer than 90 South China Tigers remain in China – 60 of them in zoos – after decades of hunting and the destruction of their habitat.

Smile for the camera: Tiger Woods Jnr with his handler Li Quan

The newborn cub shows its claws

Although Cathay displayed motherly instincts by cleaning her cub, project staff removed him because they feared he might die in the unseasonally cold weather.

Eventually he will be returned to her but for now he can enjoy a bottle feed – blissfully unaware of the responsibility resting on him.

Less than 90 South China Tigers remain in China

The new arrival gives a tired little yawn - clearly exhausted by all the attention he's received