Camaraderie

© Winnie Teo

White tigers Omar, Jippie and her sister Winnie are a big hit at the zoo. In fact, they’re most likely more famous than the tiger over at the night safari, which is of normal coloration. Contrary to popular belief, their fur color is not albinism, but a recessive gene is responsible for the “snow white” appearance instead. Omar supposedly came from India, being one of the famous Bengal tiger. Subspecies of the tigers include the Bengal Tiger, Indochinese, Malayan, Sumatran, Siberian, South China, Bali and Javan, the last two now extinct. Another subspecies is the Caspian tiger, though many argue that it is actually genetically similar to the Siberian tiger and hence should not being called a subspecies.


Anyway, white tigers are usually found in captivity, mainly because of their coloration. One, it gives away its location and hence alerts its prey, making hunting difficult for even such a powerful beast. Two, tiger parts are high in demand these days for the medicinal and spiritual power people though they possess. A white coat allows a hunter to spot its target from afar in the bushes of India. Thankfully, the Singapore zoo took in the 3 tigers. And there they are today, attracting crowds of tourists, basking in their glory. I suppose only Omar knows that, since he’s pacing half the time and not paying attention to the ladies like he ought to.


It’s wonderful to see the 3 of them get along with each other, especially since tigers are solitary animals. ^________^"


Winnie Teo
Photographer