Zoo gets Royal Bengal tigers in exchange for otters

Surat: Sarthana Nature Park Zoo has received a pair of Royal Bengal tigers in exchange for Smooth-coated otters, and the animals will soon be put on public display. However, the tigers are still adjusting to their new environment.The transfer was part of a multi-species exchange programme with Nandankanan Zoological Park near Bhubaneswar. Under the exchange, the Surat zoo sent five Smooth-coated otters, two male Indian grey wolves, 10 Indian star tortoises and a pair of silver pheasants. In return, it received a pair of Bengal tigers, two female Indian grey wolves, three four-horned antelopes, two barking deer and five Indian jackals from Nandankanan.Since the number of animals involved was large, the exchange was completed in two rounds. The process of acquiring the tiger pair was initiated after receiving approval from the Central Zoo Authority. The male tiger, originally named Abhay, and the female, Shree, are both three years old."The male tiger was kept in an open enclosure for a few hours, but it will take time for him to adjust. Gradually, both tigers will be introduced into separate open enclosures, and later they will be housed together," said Dr Rajesh Patel, superintendent of Sarthana Zoo.Zoo officials said the tigers are currently uncomfortable and their behaviour remains unusual due to the sudden change in captivity. The animals were transported by road, with a team of officials travelling to Nandankanan along with necessary equipment, medicines and manpower to ensure their safety.At present, Sarthana Zoo has one male Bengal tiger, Rudra, which was brought from Indore. The newly arrived pair is zoo-bred.Officials said Smooth-coated otters have emerged as an important species for Sarthana Zoo, enabling it to acquire various animals from across the country. The Surat zoo is reportedly the only facility in India where Smooth-coated otters are breeding successfully in captivity.