Tirupati: One of the four tiger cubs, which were discovered and saved by the residents of Pedda Gummadapuram village in Atmakur mandal, Nandyal district, on March 6, has passed away at SV Zoological Park. Zoo officials have confirmed that the cub succumbed to kidney and liver-related ailments, leaving both zoo officials and animal lovers devastated.
The remarkable journey of the tiger cubs began when they were found by the vigilant residents of Pedda Gummadapuram, who promptly alerted the forest authorities. Despite efforts to reunite the cubs with their mother tiger, the mother did not make an appearance. Consequently, the decision was made to relocate the cubs to the SV Zoo Park in Tirupati.
Upon their arrival at the Tirupati zoo, meticulous arrangements were made to ensure the cubs’ care and safety. A dedicated enclosure was established, and personnel were assigned to monitor and supervise the cubs round the clock. Through the tireless efforts of the zoo staff, the cubs managed to gain a significant 20 kilograms in weight.
However, the joyous journey of the four tiger cubs took a tragic turn as one of them fell ill. C. Selvam, the curator of the Zoo Park, revealed that the ailing cub, approximately 5 months old, had been under treatment for kidney and liver issues for the past few days. Despite the best medical care, the cub’s condition continued to deteriorate, eventually leading to its demise within the enclosure on May 29.
While the Zoo Park authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the cub’s death, an autopsy was conducted in the presence of senior forest officials following its passing. The autopsy report confirmed that kidney and liver problems were the primary cause of the cub’s unfortunate demise.
“In light of the tragic death of the tiger cub, blood samples from the remaining three cubs have been collected and sent to a laboratory in Hyderabad for analysis. This step has been taken to ensure the health and well-being of the remaining cubs, who are currently in good health. The dedicated staff at the Zoo remains fully committed to providing the best possible care for these precious animals,” stated the zoo official.
This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and risks involved in safeguarding endangered species, highlighting the urgent need for concerted efforts in protecting and preserving these magnificent creatures.