Siliguri, 18th May: Bengal Safari Park is filled with joyous anticipation as news of an upcoming addition to the family spreads. Sheela, a distinguished member of the Royal Bengal Tiger community in the park, is soon to become a grandmother. The delightful news stems from the pregnancy of Sheela’s offspring, Kika, a white Royal Bengal tiger. Visitors and park officials alike are overjoyed at the prospect of Sheela assuming the role of a nurturing grandmother.
Kika’s pregnancy has been estimated to be approximately six months along, prompting the park management to take special care and closely monitor her well-being. While the park authorities have not officially confirmed the pregnancy, they are eagerly awaiting the doctor’s report. Based on Kika’s physical activities, the signs strongly indicate her pregnancy. Consequently, Kika is currently residing in a separate enclosure and a dedicated team of doctors is ensuring round-the-clock care for her.
To cater to Kika’s needs, a specially tailored food schedule has been prepared, consisting of beef and chicken. Additionally, two coolers have been installed in her enclosure, and she is provided with an ample supply of water and ice cubes daily. Notably, Sheela, the expectant grandmother, previously gave birth to three cubs in 2015—namely Ika, Rika, and Kika—though Rika, unfortunately, did not survive. Kika was raised by her mother, Sheela. Furthermore, Sheela gave birth to five cubs on August 9th, 2020, although one of them passed away.
Presently, Bengal Safari Park is home to approximately eight Royal Bengal Tigers. Rahul Dev Mukherjee, the Assistant Director of Bengal Safari Park, expressed the belief that Kika’s behaviour and physical activities strongly indicate her pregnancy. The team of doctors is diligently observing Kika’s progress and eagerly awaiting the doctor’s report, which will provide further clarity on her pregnancy. As the park awaits the arrival of its newest member, the anticipation continues to grow, bringing happiness to both visitors and the dedicated team at Bengal Safari Park.