Mayurbhanj, Sept. 25 (UDN): A seven- to eight-month-old tiger cub was rescued from Khaparkhai village near Similipal in Mayurbhanj district after it strayed into a cattle shed and later took shelter inside an unoccupied house, forest officials said on Friday.

The cub entered the cattle shed in Khaparkhai under the Thakurmunda Range of Karanjia Forest Division on the night of September 24. The village is located close to the Similipal Sanctuary.

Cub Rescued After Veterinary Assessment

According to the Similipal Tiger Reserve authorities, the cub remained inside the vacant house until Friday morning.

During an examination, forest officials found that the animal required veterinary attention. It was subsequently rescued and placed in a cage at around noon.

The cub is currently under observation and will receive necessary veterinary care, officials said.

To Be Shifted to Jamuna Enclosure

Once the cub recovers and attains the required level of fitness, it will be shifted to a larger enclosure at Jamuna, located inside the core area of Similipal.

The enclosure will provide the animal with a more suitable environment while allowing forest authorities to monitor its health and development.

Release Planned After Independent Survival

Forest authorities said the cub will eventually be released into the wild after it becomes capable of hunting and surviving independently.

The rescue operation was undertaken after the young tiger moved into a human habitation area adjoining the sanctuary. Officials are continuing to monitor the animal as it undergoes treatment and rehabilitation.