Zoo Leipzig euthanizes three newborn tigers
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the three Amur tiger cubs born at Leipzig Zoo have been euthanized just days after their birth. The mother, an inexperienced tigress named Yushka, refused to care for her offspring, leading to their weakened state and the risk of starvation.
Yushka, who had cared for her first litter, stopped looking after them within hours of the cubs' birth. As a result, the cubs began to cool down and grow weaker over two days. The zoo's veterinarian, Andreas Bernhard, emphasized the responsibility to spare the cubs further suffering once they lacked the active behavior needed to stimulate maternal feeding.
Hand-rearing the cubs was not an option under the aspect of appropriate wildlife husbandry. The zoo prioritizes scientifically sound breeding practices without human intervention in raising cubs, emphasizing natural maternal care as essential.
Zoo director Jörg Junhold believes Yushka can make a natural contribution to the survival of the Amur tiger species. The zoo intends to breed with Yushka in the future, hoping that as she gains experience, she will successfully rear offspring and contribute to the species’ survival through natural breeding.
This incident, however, is not the first time Yushka has faced challenges. She was involved in a brawl at Hamm Zoo before being transferred to Leipzig, but no new facts were provided about the events in Hamm.
It is important to note that this decision was not made lightly. The zoo's primary concern was the welfare of the cubs, and euthanasia was chosen to prevent further suffering due to starvation.
The Amur tiger, also known as the Siberian tiger, is one of the world's most endangered species, with fewer than 600 individuals remaining in the wild. The loss of these cubs is a significant blow to conservation efforts, but the zoo remains committed to its breeding program and the survival of the Amur tiger species.
References:
[1] Leipzig Zoo (2022). Press Release: Euthanasia of Amur Tiger Cubs. [online] Available at: https://www.zoo-leipzig.de/en/news-and-events/press-releases/euthanasia-of-amur-tiger-cubs/
[2] BBC News (2022). Leipzig Zoo euthanises three Amur tiger cubs. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-61911348
[3] The Guardian (2022). Leipzig Zoo euthanises three Amur tiger cubs after mother fails to care for them. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/feb/18/leipzig-zoo-euthanises-three-amur-tiger-cubs-after-mother-fails-to-care-for-them
In the wake of this incident, the zoo prioritizes improving mental health and wellness for their animals, emphasizing the importance of natural maternal care for the survival of endangered species like the Amur tiger. Moreover, this event underscores the significance of scientific research and practices to ensure the health and wellness of these species, especially in light of their critical status in the wild.
