In Athens, Greece, veterinarians at Attica Zoological Park are fighting to save the life of a three-month-old white tiger cub, abandoned in a trash bin at the zoo. The cub is believed to have been a victim of the illegal wildlife trade.
The white tiger cub was discovered on February 28 in the parking lot of the zoo by one of the park’s cleaners who immediately contacted the owner. The zoo’s surveillance cameras showed a vehicle driving up to the trash bins the previous evening. Authorities are in the process of tracking the license plates of the vehicle.
When found, the tiger was thin and dehydrated and listed in serious condition. He is unable to feed himself and with the help of the medical staff has since gained two pounds. He is being kept in a secluded area not accessible to the public.
He has since undergone further diagnostic examinations including an MRI and CT scan which has confirmed the initial diagnosis of his severe health conditions which include both genetic deformities and how his health and development had been mismanaged.
The young cat faces significant problems in the spine, pelvis, ribs and other bones which limit his movement and cause him pain. Because of his deformed skeleton, his internal organs are involved which have obstructed his eating and breathing.
The detailed medical results have been sent to the competent national authorities, to the EAZA special scientific committee, of which we are a member, as well as to specialized veterinarians abroad, which have been recommended to us by organizations such as Born Free and Wild Cat Sanctuary at H. E. P. S. A. At the same time, in cooperation and at our request to the Ministry of the Environment, a committee is recommended with the participation of specialized veterinarians, both from our Park and other stakeholders, as well as university professors, in order to safer decision-making for the subsequent management and support of his health.
Facebook Zoo
X-rays also revealed a metal pin which had been placed in one of the cub’s back legs.
If the tiger survives, he will be relocated to a sanctuary.
Unfortunately, wildlife trade is a billion dollar business and animals from both Asia and Africa are common victims. The European Union is a prime destination for wild animal products and also a crossroad for their movement to other areas.
Anyone who has any information on the origin of the animal in question is asked to contact the Spata Police Department and the Penteli Forestry.
(Photos via Attica Zoological Park Facebook)
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