Nandankanan Tigress Jayashree Welcomes First Litter, One Cub Survives Under Intensive Care

Bhubaneswar, Dec 28: A three‑year‑old tigress named Jayashree at Nandankanan Zoological Park delivered her first litter of three cubs on December 27, 2025, following a 101‑day gestation period.

Zoo officials confirmed that of the three cubs, only one has survived and is currently receiving round‑the‑clock veterinary care at the Zoo Hospital’s ICU.

Jayashree had mated with tiger Amit in mid‑September, but as this was her first delivery, she reportedly lacked maternal instinct, which affected post‑birth care.

The first cub, born at 11:55 PM, was immediately transferred to the Neonatal Care Unit after the mother failed to attend to it.

The second cub, born at 3:34 PM, was extremely weak and did not survive despite intervention. The third cub, delivered at 4:55 PM, also died shortly after birth.

The surviving cub remains under close monitoring by veterinary teams, who are working to ensure its health and development.

With this birth, Nandankanan’s tiger population stands at 29—18 males and 11 females. No cubs are currently on display, as the newborn remains under intensive care.

Zoo authorities reiterated their commitment to providing the highest standards of neonatal care and conservation‑focused management, underscoring the importance of protecting and nurturing endangered species.