Oestrous Behaviour Of Wild-Caught Female Malayan Tigers (Panthera Tigris Jacksoni) In Captivity

The Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni) found in the Malay peninsula, a critically endangered species, is facing a rapidly declining population due to habitat loss, poaching and human-wildlife conflict. This research focuses on understanding the oestrus behaviour of wild-caught female Malayan tigers to aid in effective population and conservation strategies. The first objective was to identify specific behaviours related to the different phases of the oestrous cycle in these tigers. By observing their behaviours, including prustening, and body movements, the study aimed to identify the oestrus behaviour in order to correlate with the oestrus phase. The second objective is to assess the influence of environmental factors on the oestrous cycle in wild-caught captive female Malayan tigers. Wild-caught female tigers were observed in enriched environments to see if it influenced their reproductive behaviours after being transferred to a captive and had to adapt with the new environment. This study was conducted at the National Wildlife Rescue Centre (NWRC) in Sungkai, Perak. There were two subjects involved in this study, which were wild-caught female Malayan tigers, Mek Santong and Yong Tawai. Their behaviour was observed to identify the timing of oestrous behaviour shown in order to get the overview pattern of oestrous cycle. This research study was conducted by visual observation through video surveillance without interrupting their behaviour with the presence of humans near their area for a total of 28 days in 252 hours. Based on this study, both Mek Santong and Yong Tawai had not been mixed with male in one night stall and only Mek Santong showed partial oestrous behaviour whereas Yong Tawai did not express any oestrous behaviour throughout the study. However, even though Mek Santong showed only partial oestrous behaviour, it is sufficient to indicate that she had experienced oestrus during the observation period. Therefore, these preliminary results can be used to identify oestrus behaviour in wild-caught Malayan tigress like Mek Santong. This would enhance captive breeding programs and support the conservation of Malayan tiger. While for Yong Tawai, she requires more time and observation, allowing her to adapt and adjust to the captive environment with presence of human for her to express natural behaviours.