In a tragic and unexpected event, two white Bengal tiger cubs born at a traveling zoo exhibit in Duluth died just days after their arrival.
The cubs, weighing less than three pounds each, were born to Gita and Splash, a pair of rare white tigers showcased at Zoo Dynamics’ exhibit at the Mighty Thomas Carnival. The deaths occurred between 6:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, according to Marcus Cook, a senior animal-care specialist at Zoo Dynamics.
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Cook confirmed that the cubs were nursing and showed no immediate signs of distress related to their care or the zoo’s environment. A veterinarian from the nearby Lake Superior Zoo examined the cubs but could not determine a clear cause of death. “It could be a million things that happened, even before conception,” Cook explained, highlighting the complexity of such cases.
The cubs’ remains have been sent to a laboratory for further examination to uncover the cause of death. This unfortunate event has drawn attention to the ongoing debate about breeding white tigers.
Animal rights groups often criticize the practice, citing the genetic risks associated with inbreeding necessary to produce the distinctive white coat. However, Cook stated that these cubs were “clean” for at least five generations.
This is not Gita’s first experience as a mother. In 2005, she gave birth to two male cubs who now reside at an animal facility in Amarillo, Texas. Cook noted that Gita was kept on tour while pregnant to avoid stress, as separation from Splash and her handlers could have negatively affected her well-being.
Zoo Dynamics, based in Dallas, specializes in providing rare and exotic animals for smaller zoos, resorts, commercial events, and exhibits. While the organization prides itself on offering animals that are challenging to maintain, the loss of these tiger cubs highlights the challenges and ethical concerns associated with such operations.
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