Time for the fourth installment of Kent Online’s exclusive tiger cub diaries – and those easily shocked might want to look away!

The cubs have left their initial shyness and trepidation far behind them, and are as bold and boisterous as their parents.

At 21 weeks, the cubs are exploring their enclosure more confidently and without the guidance of mum Ingrid.

Ingrid herself has also calmed down considerably and allowed our cameras to get closer than ever to her young.

Keeper Richard Barnes said: “At first, mum would be very protective over the cubs and was more aggressive. The cubs themselves were very shy of strangers and the keepers.

“Now they are being very brave by coming right up to the fence. They have really started to bond with dad Tug too.”

Yes – a little too well perhaps, as the muggy temperature got the better of the loveable 10-year-old, and he became a little over, ahem, over affectionate with one of the cubs….

Video: Watch reporter Sinead Hanna’s latest installment of the tiger diaries by clicking the link at the top of the screen