photo courtesy : Sakshi
NEW DELHI: A new attraction has been added for wildlife enthusiasts at Dehradun Zoo. White tiger Tejas has arrived from Gwalior Zoological Park under a tiger exchange programme. With its white coat, dark stripes and striking blue eyes, Tejas has become Uttarakhand’s first white tiger.
Zoo officials believe the arrival will enhance wildlife diversity and attract more visitors. However, the tiger will remain away from public view for some time to allow it to adjust to its new surroundings and undergo health checks.
Tejas was brought to Dehradun as part of a tiger exchange programme between Dehradun Zoo and Gwalior Zoological Park. In return, Bhola, a nearly five-year-old Royal Bengal tiger from Dehradun Zoo, has been sent to Gwalior.
Officials said the exchange aims to increase wildlife diversity at both zoos while supporting conservation efforts.
The tiger travelled approximately 556 kilometres by road from Gwalior to Dehradun. According to Dehradun Zoo ranger and in-charge Diksha Bhatt, Tejas was transported in a specially designed rescue vehicle.
The journey took between 12 and 14 hours, with a team of experts accompanying the animal throughout. The 13-member team included veterinarians and forest department officials.
After arriving in Dehradun, Tejas was not moved directly into the display area. Zoo officials said it is mandatory for animals transferred from another facility to undergo a period of quarantine and observation.
The tiger will remain in quarantine for about 20 days. During this period, only the enclosure keeper and veterinarian will have access to it. Its health, diet, behaviour and ability to adapt to the new environment will be closely monitored.
Umakant Lakhera is a Senior Journalist and Political Commentator
