AI cams, signals from radio collars keeping track of Zeenat, offsprings

Bhubaneswar: While Zeenat giving birth is a rare success of a much-watched inter-state tiger translocation project, the big question now is survival of the cubs.

Zeenat, who looks quite possessive and apprehensive, has been shifting bases, apparently to save the cubs from other male tigers and predators. The cubs are around three weeks old, Similipal officials said, citing their size seen in the camera trap images. As many as 140 AI cameras have been installed across the 2,750 sq km of the reserve, including the core area.

“All due care is being taken for safety of the cubs. Patrolling squad can’t go near it but can track its movement through radio collar signals,” said forest minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia.

“They (cubs) will now depend only on mother’s milk. Zeenat will be on constant vigil for the cubs to ensure that they all remain healthy and survive. She will keep them (cubs) hidden and will not allow any other tiger to come near her,” said former PCCF (wildlife) Susanta Nanda.