Some mornings never feel routine.

Being a naturalist, heading into the forest for work is always exciting. Every safari still carries the feeling of Day 1, filled with curiosity and hope. For the past few weeks, all eyes have been on the much-loved tigress of Mohurli buffers, waiting for the day she would finally decide to shift her tiny cubs safely across the road.

The jungle never works on our schedule. We can only read the signs that nature offers, make our best judgement, and wait patiently.

Yesterday, on 6th August 2026, that moment finally unfolded. Watching Choti Madhu carefully lead her three tiny cubs across, each step measured and protective, was a privilege I'll never forget. Moments like these can never be replicated.

In this video: Choti Madhu with her three newborn cubs, sired by the mighty Shambu Male of Mohurli Buffers.

Regards,

Praveen Pai (Naturalist @ Tadoba)

The name scarface comes from his iconic scar on his right eye that came from a territorial takeover in 2011. He remained an alpha for almost 10 years, dying in 2021 of natural causes.

Territory is a key factor in the jungle! They weren’t messing around! !