A second consecutive incident of tiger fatality has been reported from Kanha National Park, raising concerns among wildlife enthusiasts. A tiger was found dead in the Soopkhar forest area following a territorial fight. According to medical experts from the forest department, the cause of death was a severe fracture in the lower jawbone, indicating a fierce attack by another tiger. The deceased tiger, estimated to be around 4-5 years old, was discovered during routine patrolling by forest officials. Following its discovery, immediate action was taken in accordance with the guidelines issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), New Delhi, and the Chief Wildlife Conservator’s office in Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal. The incident site and surrounding areas were secured and thoroughly investigated with the assistance of a dog squad to rule out any possibility of poaching.
Postmortem Examination Confirms Cause of Death
A post-mortem examination conducted by wildlife veterinarians Dr. Sandeep Agarwal and Dr. Rakesh Wareshwa confirmed that all vital organs of the tiger were intact, but the jawbone had sustained severe fractures. This finding established that the tiger's death resulted from an internal conflict rather than external interference. Following the examination, the tiger was cremated as per standard protocol. The cremation was carried out in the presence of senior forest officials, including Field Director Ravindramani Tripathi, Deputy Director Puneet Goyal, Assistant Director Mukesh Kumar Jamor, J.C. Bhagat (Tehsildar Baihar), Parshuram Chauhan (NTCA Representative), Chandresh Khare (Honorary Wildlife Conservator), Santram Maravi (Sarpanch Patuwa), and other field staff.
Second Tiger Death in Less Than Two Weeks
This marks the second tiger death in Kanha National Park within 12 days. Earlier, a female tiger, approximately 10-12 years old, lost her life following a territorial conflict in the Kisli forest range. Similarly, in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, renowned for its high tiger population, an increase in fatal encounters among tigers has raised serious concerns among wildlife experts. The growing number of tiger deaths due to intraspecies conflicts highlights the pressing need for continued monitoring and conservation efforts to ensure the long-term survival of these magnificent predators.
Safety Precautions to be Adopted by Tourists Visiting National Parks
The natural behaviour of tigers engaging in territorial battles is beyond human control. However, tourists must strictly adhere to safari guidelines to ensure their safety while exploring Kanha National Park and other wildlife destinations across the country. Following these precautions will help prevent any unforeseen encounters with tigers or other wild animals:
1. Always listen to and follow the instructions provided by forest officials and safari guides. Rules are designed to protect both visitors and wildlife.
2. Under no circumstances should tourists step out of the safari vehicle, as it puts them at risk of encountering wild animals.
3. Making loud noises, shouting, or sudden movements can provoke animals and disrupt their natural behaviour, increasing the risk of an aggressive reaction.
4. Feeding animals can make them aggressive and disrupt their diet and natural hunting instincts. Keeping a safe distance is essential.
5. Never wander away from the designated safari route or separate from the group, as it increases the risk of dangerous wildlife encounters.
6. Wildlife safaris operate during specific hours when animals are most active. Venturing outside these hours is not permitted and can be dangerous.
7. If a tiger or any other predator approaches the safari vehicle, remain still and do not panic. Sudden reactions can startle the animal and lead to unwanted situations.
