Bhubaneswar, 27-06-2024 It is with profound sadness that Najdankanan Zoological Park announces the passing of Sara, a cherished wild tigress and an integral part of the Nandankanan family. Sara’s journey
began when she was rescued from Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, on October 18,
2006, at just five months old, and reared at Van Vihar Zoological Park, Bhopal. She joined
Nandankanan Zoological Park,Bhubaneswar, on April 18, 2009, under an animal exchange
program. Sara became a vital participant in our conservation breeding program, infusing new
bloodlines by giving birth to Asha, Ankita and Subhashree on January 13, 2012, sired by the
tiger Rishi. Asha was later transferred to Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad, under another
animal exchange program.
On February 29, 2024, Sara was observed to be dull, unable to stand, and had labored
breathing. After treatment with antibiotics and supportive therapy, she stood and accepted meat
on March 3, 2024. She was confined to the feeding and small paddock area. On March 21, 2024,
she developed decubital ulcers on both hip joints and was continuously treated. Despite
accepting food, she gradually became emaciated. On June 26, 2024, Sara was seen in lateral
recumbency with feeble respiration. Despite all efforts, she breathed her last on June 27, 2024, at
4:42 AM, at the ripe old age of eithteen years and one month. As we mourn the loss of Sara, we
also reflect on her vital contribution to the ex-situ conservation of tigers in India.
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