Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Big cat who dives in pool for his food caught on camera

By Daily Mail Reporter



The moment a big cat took the plunge and chased a meaty treat to the bottom of its enclosure at a wildlife park in California has been caught on camera.
This series of amazing pictures shows the tiger fully submerged in the pool, as it chased after a piece of meat. Californian photographer Pam Wood captured the stunning images as keepers at the zoo found new ways to keep the big cats entertained.

Whet the appetite: This tiger at a California zoo dives under the water as it chases a meaty snack
Whet the appetite: This tiger at a California zoo dives under the water as it chases a meaty snack

In one dramatic photo, an over-eager tiger is seen pushing against the glass wall of the viewing area after nearly colliding in its rush to grab a meal. Wildlife and animal photographer Wood, who lives in Corralitos, said she quickly snapped a few images when she saw the feeding display taking place, but didn't think they would be any good as she was shooting through glass. 'There were a couple of tigers participating in the stunt and they looked hungry - as soon as I saw this happening I quickly shot off a few photos and crossed my fingers,' she told Caters News.
 
Her quick reaction produced a series of stunning images, with one of a tiger smashing into the wall winning several awards. 'I'm not a supporter of animals being used in the entertainment industry but these tigers were in a nice environment and seemed to enjoy the interaction, and I'm sure it helped with the boredom of captivity,' she said. Although most cats - domestic and wild - try to avoid water at all costs, tigers are competent swimmers, and often take to the water as a way to cool off.


Dive in: The stunning underwater photos were taken while zoo keepers fed the big cats
Dive in: The stunning underwater photos were taken while zoo keepers fed the big cats


Close call: In its rush to grab the food, a tiger crashes into a glass wall in its enclosure
Close call: In its rush to grab the food, a tiger crashes into a glass wall in its enclosure


On the prowl: The big cat chases after a lump of meat thrown in the pool by keepers
On the prowl: The big cat chases after a lump of meat thrown in the pool by keepers

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