Birds eat boiled eggs, animals get winter diets in MP:White Tiger diet revised as Mukundpur Safari makes arrangements for snakes, pythons during cold

As temperatures continue to drop across Madhya Pradesh, the impact of winter is being felt not only by people but also by wildlife. In response, the management of the state’s only White Tiger Safari at Mukundpur has introduced special measures to protect animals from the cold, including significant changes to their diet and living conditions. White Tigers get extra meat for winter energy Under normal conditions, a white tiger at Mukundpur Safari consumes around 10 kilograms of meat daily. However, during winter, this has been increased to 12 kilograms of buffalo meat. According to safari officials, the additional intake helps the animals maintain body heat and energy levels in colder weather. Currently, the safari is home to four white tigers—three adults named Raghu, Tipu and Sonam—and one cub that was brought to the facility in January. In addition, there are five Bengal tigers and two lions housed at the safari. Diet changes for other animals too Winter-specific dietary changes have been introduced for several other species as well. Bears are now being fed kheer (a milk-based rice pudding), while birds are being given boiled eggs to meet their increased nutritional needs. Special heating arrangements have been made for reptiles such as pythons and snakes, which are particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures. Special care for exotic birds Mukundpur Safari’s walk-in aviary houses more than 17 species of exotic birds brought from different countries. To protect them from the cold, the safari management has built special shelters using grass, straw and wood. Bird enclosures have been shifted to elevated platforms to avoid cold ground temperatures, and their diets have been completely revised. Caretakers have also increased the quantity of “warm-natured” grains such as sunflower seeds and sesame to help birds cope with winter conditions. 50,000 tourists expected on New Year’s day With the New Year approaching, safari authorities are preparing for a major influx of visitors. An estimated 50,000 tourists are expected to visit Mukundpur White Tiger Safari on January 1 alone. In anticipation, arrangements related to crowd management, safety and facilities are being strengthened. Heaters, green sheets and vitamins for animal health Dr Nitin Gupta, the veterinarian in charge of wildlife at the safari, said that heaters have been installed near animal enclosures, while special heat lamps are being used for birds. Animals are also being given vitamin supplements and nutritious food to keep them healthy and energetic. To protect big cats like tigers, lions and cheetahs from cold winds and dew, green sheets have been installed over their enclosures. The quantity of fatty meat given to lions and tigers has been increased, while deer are being fed jaggery along with their regular diet. Straw bedding has been spread on the ground inside enclosures to provide warmth. Herbivorous animals are being given extra vegetables and fruits during winter, while the food portions for carnivores have also been increased. Animals are protected from cold winds at night and are allowed to bask in sunlight during the mornings. Winter boosts tourist footfall, especially from UP and Bihar According to safari officials, tourist numbers nearly double during the winter season. Pleasant weather, lush greenery and improved wildlife sightings attract visitors, particularly from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. During winter months, animals are more active and often visible in open areas, offering tourists a more thrilling safari experience. As a result, bookings increase sharply on weekends and holidays. Local economy gets a push The rise in tourist numbers has had a positive impact on the local economy. Hotels, roadside eateries and transport services are seeing increased business, creating new employment opportunities. Safari authorities are confident that the entire winter season will be highly successful from a tourism perspective. Tourists share their experience Aditya Sharma, a tourist from Bhopal, said, “Visiting Mukundpur White Tiger Safari in winter is a completely different experience. The greenery looks stunning, and watching tigers roaming freely is truly thrilling.” Neha Verma from Prayagraj added, “I love exploring new places, and Mukundpur felt special. The winter weather is pleasant, visibility is excellent, and the guides shared very interesting information about animal behaviour. It felt safe and enjoyable even with children.” MP’s only white tiger safari Mukundpur White Tiger Safari, officially known as the Maharaja Martand Singh Judev White Tiger Safari, is the only facility of its kind in Madhya Pradesh and is also recognised as the world’s first white tiger safari. Spread over nearly 250 acres, it is located about 15 km from Rewa and 55 km from Satna. The safari offers visitors a chance to see rare white tigers, along with lions, leopards and bears, in a natural environment through open jeep safaris. Eco-tourism and historical significance An eco-tourism park developed near the safari adds to its appeal, offering adventure activities for families and young visitors. Nearby attractions such as the Sharda Temple in Maihar and the Purwa and Keoti waterfalls are helping establish the region as a major tourism hub. The Vindhya region is historically linked to white tigers. The first white tiger, Mohan, was discovered here by Maharaja Martand Singh Judev of the former Rewa state. In recognition of this legacy, the safari was named after him. Opened to the public in 2016, the safari welcomed nearly 400,000 visitors in its first year. Since then, tourist numbers have doubled, reaffirming Mukundpur’s growing status as a premier wildlife and eco-tourism destination.