Translocation of Tigers to Sahyadri Tiger Reserve

The Union Environment Ministry has approved the capture and translocation of eight tigers from the Tadoba-Andhari and Pench reserves to the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve in western Maharashtra. This initiative aims to boost the big cat population in the northern Western Ghats.

Approval and Preparations

• The Wildlife Division of the ministry has set conditions for the translocation, including: 
  • Adequate veterinary care throughout capture and translocation.
  • Measures to prevent post-capture complications.
  • Minimizing trauma to tigers during the operation.
• The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) provided a positive appraisal of the preparations for hosting the translocated tigers.

Initial Translocation Plan

• Initial translocation includes two tigresses from the Tadoba Tiger Reserve by December.
• The Sahyadri reserve has a healthy prey base that will be regularly augmented.
• Tigers will undergo a 'soft release' in a temporary enclosure before being released into the wild.

Long-term Tiger Recovery Plan

• This effort is part of the second phase of a long-term tiger recovery plan.
• Previous phase focused on strengthening forest habitat and prey base.

Sahyadri Tiger Reserve Overview

• Spread over 1,165 sq km across Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, and Ratnagiri districts.
• Formed in 2010 by combining Chandoli National Park and Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Despite rich vegetation, breeding tigers have not colonized the reserve.
• Currently, a transient tiger population with three male tigers frequently recorded.

Significance of the Translocation

• Revival of tigers is crucial for protecting dense forests and watershed of rivers.
• Helps maintain connectivity of tiger habitats between northern Western Ghats and southern regions in Goa and Karnataka.
• The reserve forms the catchment for Koyna and Warna rivers, vital for livelihoods in neighboring districts.