One of 4 tiger cubs rescued in Atmakur dies in Tirupati zoological park

TIRUPATI: One of the four tiger cubs, which were found and rescued by the residents of Pedda Gummadapuram village in Atmakur mandal, Nandyal district, on March 6, has died at SV Zoological Park in Tirupati. According to zoo park officials, the cub succumbed to kidney and liver related ailments, leaving both zoo officials and animal lovers devastated.

The journey of the tiger cubs began when they were found by the residents of Pedda Gummadapuram, who alerted the forest authorities. Though efforts were made to reunite the cubs with mother tiger, the mother did not make an appearance. Later, the cubs were relocated to the SV Zoo Park in Tirupati.

Upon arrival at the Tirupati zoo, arrangements were made to ensure their care and safety. A special enclosure was set up, and personnel were assigned to monitor and supervise the cubs round the clock. Over time, the cubs managed to gain 20 kilograms in weight, due to the tireless efforts of the zoo staff.

However, the joyous journey of the four tiger cubs took a tragic turn as one of them fell ill. Zoo Park curator C. Selvam revealed that the ailing cub, aged around 5 months, was receiving treatment for the past few days for kidney and liver issues. Despite the best medical care, the cub's condition continued to deteriorate, resulting in its demise within the enclosure on May 29.

It may be noted that the Zoo Park authorities didn’t make any official statement regarding the death of the tiger cub. However, following the cub's passing, an autopsy was conducted in the presence of senior forest officials. The autopsy report confirmed that the cub's cause of death was attributed to kidney and liver problems.

“In light of the tragic death of the tiger cub, blood samples from the remaining three tiger cubs have been collected and sent to a laboratory in Hyderabad for analysis, to ensure the health and well-being of the remaining cubs. The remaining three cubs are in good health. The staff at the Zoo remains dedicated to providing the best care possible for these precious animals”, the zoo official said.

The unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks involved in safeguarding endangered species.