“Tyger Tyger, burning bright” in Sepahijala Zoo in Tripura
Wildlife enthusiasts and officials at Tripura’s Sepahijala Zoo and Wildlife Sanctuary are rejoicing over a significant and joyous event—the birth of three tiger cubs. This remarkable occurrence marks the first time in the zoo’s 53-year history that a tigress has given birth to three cubs at once, making it a landmark moment for both the zoo and tiger conservation efforts in the region. The Sepahijala Zoo and Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1972, has now recorded this momentous achievement, and the birth of the cubs has sparked excitement and hope among conservationists, zoo officials, and animal lovers alike.
On Monday, Biswajit Das, Director of Sepahijala Zoo and Wildlife Sanctuary, confirmed the news of the cubs’ birth. According to Das, the tigress delivered the three healthy cubs last week, a milestone that is both thrilling and encouraging for wildlife conservation. He noted that this is the first time in the history of the zoo that a tigress housed in the enclosures has given birth to three tiger cubs at the same time. This historic event is being celebrated as a positive indication of successful tiger conservation practices within the zoo premises.
Following the birth of the cubs, the number of big cats at the Sepahijala Zoo has risen to five. The official recalled that the zoo had received a pair of tigers from West Bengal in February of the previous year as part of an animal exchange programme. The arrival of the pair marked an important step in enhancing the zoo’s big cat population. Now, with the successful birth of three cubs, the efforts appear to have paid off.
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The mother tigress and her newborn cubs are reportedly doing well inside their enclosure. To ensure their safety and well-being, the zoo authorities have taken several precautionary measures. The male tiger, which shares the enclosure, has been shifted to a separate space to avoid any disturbance to the mother and her cubs. Additionally, several Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras have been installed around the enclosure to monitor the mother’s behavior and the health of the cubs around the clock.
To maintain a peaceful environment, visitors and wildlife enthusiasts are being restricted from approaching the enclosure. The zoo authorities believe that keeping the area quiet and undisturbed is crucial during this critical period of nurturing and adaptation for the mother and her cubs. According to Das, the tigress is being given balanced and nutritious meals, including fresh meat and specially prepared healthy soups several times a day. This diet is intended to support the tigress’s health and ensure that she can produce sufficient milk to feed the cubs.
Expressing his delight at the birth of the tiger cubs, Animesh Debbarma, Minister of Forest, Science and Technology, and Environment, called the event an encouraging sign for tiger conservation at the Sepahijala Zoo. Debbarma expressed his intention to visit the zoo soon to see the cubs and evaluate the facilities. He stated that his department is making consistent efforts to transform the Sepahijala Zoo into a world-class animal conservation hub. To achieve this vision, the minister emphasized the need for support from the Central Zoo Authority and financial assistance from the Central government for further development of the zoo and training of staff.
The Sepahijala Zoo and Wildlife Sanctuary, located approximately 35 km south of Agartala city, covers an area of about 18.53 square kilometers. It stands out as one of Tripura’s prominent tourist attractions and plays a significant role in wildlife conservation. In the fiscal year 2024-25, the zoo attracted more than 1.70 lakh visitors from both within the state and other parts of the country. As word spreads about the birth of the tiger cubs, the zoo is expected to draw even more visitors eager to witness this remarkable addition to its animal population.
With the arrival of the new cubs, the zoo’s staff remains dedicated to ensuring their growth and safety, viewing this moment as not just an achievement but as a responsibility to continue nurturing and preserving the big cat population in Tripura. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts, especially for species as majestic and vulnerable as tigers.
Representative Pic from Internet.
