At Banham Zoo in Norwich, UK, two playful tiger cubs were caught on camera having a blast with their mother, showcasing just how lively these big cats can be.
The video, filmed in October 2021, captures the cubs’ energetic antics as they explore their surroundings, climb, and even try to bite their mother while she rests.
One of the cubs, an adventurous Amur tiger, climbs up its mother’s back and attempts to nibble on her ears, interrupting her nap.
Though the playful interruption causes her to shift, the cub’s boundless energy leads it to jump off and continue exploring.
Captured by Talvinder Chohan, a 40-year-old photographer and business development manager, the footage highlights the patience required for wildlife photography.
“Any wildlife or zoo animal photography is all about patience, as you are on the animal’s terms,” said Chohan, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of animal behavior.
In another moment, both cubs rest on their mother’s back, only to be stirred awake by her slight movement.
One of the cubs, after attempting to settle back down, becomes distracted and runs off to play in the nearby grass.
Chohan noted that the combination of power and gentleness in the mother tiger offers a unique perspective of the species.
He hopes his photos help raise awareness about tigers and encourage support for their conservation.
Tigers, which can grow up to 80 inches long with a 30-inch tail and weigh up to 670 pounds, are among the largest wild cats.
They have a lifespan of up to 20 years. The Amur tiger, or Siberian tiger, is the most endangered subspecies, primarily due to poaching and habitat loss. These tigers are mostly found in Russia’s birch forests but also inhabit parts of China and North Korea.
While Amur tigers are struggling, there has been some hope for tiger populations, particularly with the Bengal tiger in India, where conservation efforts have led to a modest recovery.
Chohan’s photography has been met with positive online feedback, highlighting the importance of continuing to raise awareness about these majestic animals and the threats they face.
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