Home / Environment / Delhi Zoo Fights to Save Critically Ill Tiger Cubs After Tragic Losses
Delhi Zoo Fights to Save Critically Ill Tiger Cubs After Tragic Losses
22 Aug
Summary
- Six Bengal tiger cubs born at Delhi Zoo in August 2025
- Two cubs died within a week, others critically ill with fever and lethargy
- Zoo staff hand-rearing remaining cubs in isolation, efforts to stabilize them
The Delhi Zoo welcomed a litter of six Bengal tiger cubs in early August 2025, the largest such birth at the zoo in two decades. The cubs were born to seven-year-old Tigress Aditi, raising hopes for the conservation of this critically endangered species.
Sadly, the joyous occasion was marred by tragedy as two of the cubs passed away within a week. One cub, described as the weakest of the litter, died on August 8th, while another that was unable to feed on the mother's milk died on August 10th.
The condition of the remaining three cubs is now critical, with zoo officials reporting that they are showing signs of lethargy, running high fevers, and not consuming milk - symptoms indicative of a serious infection. A fourth cub admitted to the hospital last week is said to be in a stable condition and is being hand-reared.
The zoo's veterinary officer, Dr. Abhijit Bhawal, stated that the three new cubs were admitted to the hospital in the early hours of Thursday, August 17th. Efforts are now underway to isolate and stabilize the cubs, with the zoo's staff working tirelessly to ensure their survival.
This is not the first time the Delhi Zoo has faced such challenges. Earlier this year, the zoo had to hand-rear two lion cubs after their mother rejected them. Those cubs are now four months old and will soon be moved to the main enclosure.
The Delhi Zoo has been a hub for tiger conservation and breeding since the Central Zoo Authority initiated a planned program in 2010. Despite the current setbacks, the zoo remains committed to its role in protecting this endangered species.
