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Sole Surviving White Tiger Cub Fights for Life
16 Apr
Summary
- A rare triplet of white tiger cubs was born at Sayajibaug Zoo.
- Two of the three cubs did not survive the critical first 48 hours.
- The sole surviving cub is receiving intensive neonatal care.
Sayajibaug Zoo is currently witnessing a delicate fight for survival as a sole white tiger cub battles for life after a rare triplet birth. The two adult white tigers, Radha and Vallabh, welcomed three cubs on April 9, marking a significant event as the zoo has not had white tigers in 40 years.
Tragically, one cub was stillborn, and a second fragile newborn succumbed within the crucial first 48 hours. The third cub, born weighing approximately 650 grams, is now under intensive neonatal care. Veterinarians are hand-rearing the cub, providing specialized formula every few hours in a climate-controlled environment. The zoo reported the cub has gained weight and is showing improvement.
Curator Dr. Pratyush Patankar noted that while the mother tigress Radha showed maternal instincts, she was unable to provide the necessary care for the newborn. The cub was separated for hand-rearing as advised by tiger experts. Despite the loss of two cubs, the zoo is hopeful, as Radha and Vallabh are a young, fertile pair and this experience may better prepare the mother for future litters.
The adult white tigers were transferred from Rajkot to Vadodara in mid-December, with mating observed and signs of pregnancy noted in March. Although the zoo lost two cubs, the birth itself offers hope for future white tiger offspring.
