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Orphaned Tiger Cubs Find a Father
In northern India’s Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, animals experience not only the benefits of living in the wild, but the dangers too. This is typical of many animal reserves that replicate the animal’s experience in the wild, and is not necessarily a negative reflection on the reserve itself.
Officials at the reserve feared the worst for a litter of tiger cubs when their mother died last February. Cubs left without a mother in the wild are completely vulnerable to predators – including adults of their own kind – and cannot fend for themselves over the long-term. The orphaned cubs disappeared soon after their mother’s death, so officials were sure they didn’t make it.
Tiger dads, like most wildcat fathers, generally don’t stick around for the rearing of their cubs. But these orphaned cubs have been blessed with a miracle. After their disappearing act, the cubs eventually re-emerged – in the company of one exceptional male tiger, who has risen to the task of caring for them. This is especially remarkable since these may not even be his cubs! What a guy!
The tiger, called T-25, would typically roam over an extensive territory, but he’s modified this behavior to stay closer to the cubs. He’s also been observed sharing his meals with them. Officials at the reserve are amazed by his protective, nurturing instincts.
Just when I think I can predict their behavior, big cats continue to surprise and delight me. I love it!
More about T-25 and his cubs:
- http://www.dailypioneer.com/339469/This-Ranthambore-papa-takes-motherhood-seriously.html
- http://www.treehugger.com/files/2011/05/male-tiger-plays-mom-to-a-litter-of-orphaned-cubs.php
More on Ranthambore National Park.
Have a blessed Father’s Day weekend!
Photo & info courtesy of
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