The cubs were given a clean bill of health, and their information was added to the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS)
The cubs were given a clean bill of health, and their information was added to the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS)
The three tiger cubs at the ZSL London Zoo recently got a visit from the zoo’s vets, who were finally able to determine the sexes of the stripy infants—two males and a girl.
Each cub underwent a full nose-to-tail checkup by ZSL veterinarian Dr. Ellie Milnes, who also weighed each cub and checked their eyes, teeth, hearts, and general physical condition.
After receiving a clean bill of health, all three had their data entered into the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), a global database used by zoos to compare vital data on hundreds of endangered species.
The examination took place in the cubs’ cozy home, with their mother Gaysha waiting outside in the pasture, as their vital signs were taken and their crucial first immunizations were administered.
In order to hold the writhing and hissing cubs calm for their first vaccines, zookeepers have a job and a half on their hands—a situation that many parents of young children are acquainted with.
The cubs, however, are already equipped with razor-sharp claws and aggressive personalities, unlike newborn humans.
Zookeeper Lucy Reed said: “It’s not very often we are ‘hands on’ with the animals we look after – in fact most of the time we do the complete opposite – so I was very excited to get to help hold the cubs, it’s a huge privilege”.
“However, I think it’s safe to say the cubs didn’t feel the same way – they’re super strong already and holding them still for their injections felt like doing a mega workout. It’s a really encouraging sign though, as all the fidgeting and hisses are a completely instinctive behavior and something we want to see them doing”, Reed added.
The cubs were equipped with a microchip during the health check and weighed a respectable 9.3kg, 8.25kg (for the two boys), and 6.7kg (for the mother). This guarantees that each one can be readily and precisely recognised as they develop.
Dr Ellie Milnes added: “This first health check is really important for the cubs, not only is it a chance for us to really investigate how they’re doing and how well they’re growing, but their first vaccinations help to boost their young immune system and keep them healthy and well”.
“It gives us great pleasure to say we have three healthy and super strong cubs in our care.”
Following this evening’s annual fundraising event Safari in the City for ZSL (the conservation organisation that manages London Zoo), the cubs’ names will be chosen by supporters of the organization’s global wildlife programmes.
Produced in association with Magazine Features (South Africa).
(Additional reporting provided by ZSL London Zoo)
