Havana, July 7: Cuba’s National Zoo has welcomed the birth of four Bengal tiger cubs, including a rare white cub, in what officials describe as a rare moment of hope amid the country’s ongoing economic and energy crisis.
Veteran animal caretaker Ángel Cordero, who has worked at the zoo for 44 years, said this is only the second time a white tiger cub has been born in Cuba. He expressed pride at witnessing the milestone despite the country’s difficult circumstances.
Cordero said the current fuel shortage, worsened by U.S. sanctions, has created one of the toughest periods in his career. He recalled helping build the lion and tiger enclosures decades ago and said maintaining the zoo has become increasingly challenging.
Zoo authorities said they require about 20 liters of diesel each day to transport food for nearly 1,000 animals but are currently receiving only around 5 liters. The shortage has complicated the care and feeding of animals, including buffaloes, zebras, rhinos, and hippos.
Zoo Director Juan Carlos Santos said the dedication of staff and support from small private businesses have helped ensure the animals continue to receive essential care. These businesses have assisted in supplying food and other necessary materials.
Because of the fuel shortage, zoo workers now rely on horse-drawn carts and electric three-wheeled vehicles to travel across the zoo’s 375-hectare grounds.
“Everything depends on fuel,” Cordero said, noting that transporting animals and delivering food is impossible without vehicles.
Cuban officials hope that the government’s proposed economic reforms will attract greater foreign investment, scientific cooperation, and access to equipment and supplies, strengthening wildlife conservation efforts in the future.
