This is, of course, not surprising, as young animals develop their physical and mental abilities through play and prepare for adult life in this way. At the same time, they clearly enjoy themselves, and the sight is entertaining for visitors as well.
Léna, our five-month-old tiger cub, is one of the most popular residents of the Zoo. She often draws groups of visitors around the tiger enclosure when she is playing or eating, and even when she is simply dozing. Although she still drinks milk from time to time, most of her diet now consists of meat, just like that of adult tigers. Besides her food, she also chews on other things, such as elements of the enclosure, including the wooden logs used for climbing or scratching. A smaller, movable piece of wood is also perfect for her to “capture” as prey, drag around, bite all over, and guard even when she is not actively playing with it.
Léna was born on April 13 to our breeding pair of tigers, Agnes and Dáriusz, also known as Igor. She was not alone, as she had a sibling named Szása. Sadly, as many friends of the Zoo know, Szása is no longer with us due to an unavoidable cerebral hemorrhage. Léna, however, continues to grow well, and her mother, Agnes, takes loving care of her. This is especially good news because Agnes is relatively young and this was her first time giving birth, so she was not considered very experienced. It soon became clear, however, that she is an excellent mother, which is very encouraging for the future as well.
