Mary Allen
Introduction: Why are baby tigers called cubs?
It is fascinating how different animals are named in their infant stage, some are called pups, kits, or even fry. However, for tigers, their babies are called cubs. But why are baby tigers called cubs? The term “cub” has been used to refer to baby tigers since time immemorial. It is a term that has been passed down from generation to generation. In this article, we shall explore the origin of the word “cub,” the development stages of tiger cubs, the role of the mother tiger in cub rearing, and how zookeepers care for tiger cubs.
The origin of the word “cub”
The term “cub” is derived from the Old English word “cubb” or “cuþb,” which means young of certain animals. The word was also used to refer to a fox, bear, or wolf’s young. The word was first used in the 14th century, and it has stuck ever since. The term “cub” is now widely used to refer to the young of big cats, including tigers. The term is not just used for tigers but is also used to refer to the young of lions, jaguars, and leopards. The term “cub” is a common term used in the animal kingdom, and it has become a part of everyday language.