3 tiger cubs die at Bannerghatta Biological Park in Bengaluru, officials cite lack of maternal care | Bengaluru News

Bengaluru: Three tiger cubs born at the Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP) on July 7 died within two days of birth, despite efforts by veterinarians to save them through hand-rearing.According to BBP officials, the cubs were born to tigress Hima Das, who gave her third litter on July 7. Soon after the delivery, the mother showed no signs of nurturing the cubs. As a result, the newborns sustained injuries.“The cubs were shifted to the zoo hospital for intensive care and hand-rearing. Despite all interventions by doctors, the cubs could not be saved,” said the BBP management in a statement. One male cub died on July 8. Two others —a male and a female—died on July 9.Post-mortem examinations, conducted by the veterinary team, said: One male cub died due to a cervical injury caused by a stampede in the enclosure, the other male cub suffered a head injury, likely from the mother biting it, leading to brain trauma and meningeal haematoma. The female cub also had injuries consistent with a stampede.The zoo authorities clarified that in captivity, it is not uncommon for big cats to abandon their cubs, especially if they lack maternal instincts. In such cases, hand-rearing at the zoo hospital is the standard protocol.Officials also responded to speculations on the deaths. “It is disheartening to see unverified information and escalating the issue to unwarranted levels. The entire ordeal was monitored through CCTV, and the animal keepers and doctors provided the best possible care,” the statement said.