Another Young Tiger Dies in MP: Found Dead in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve During Monitoring

Umaria (MP): The death of tigers continues to raise concern in Madhya Pradesh, famously known as the “Tiger State.” Yet again, a young tiger has been found dead in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (BTR). The tiger, approximately two years old, was discovered at a single location for the past two days, under constant monitoring by the reserve team, and was pronounced dead on Friday afternoon. This marks the fourth tiger death in the past two months in the reserve.

Monitoring and Discovery

The tiger was located in the Kusmaha area of the Pataur Range within the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Rangers had spotted the tiger sitting in a lantana patch and began surveillance from a safe distance. The team continued to monitor the animal closely until its death on Friday afternoon.

At present, the gender of the tiger remains unknown, and the exact cause of death has not been determined. A post-mortem examination is scheduled for Saturday to confirm the tiger’s gender and ascertain the reason behind its sudden demise.

Official Statement

Dr. Anupam Sahay, Range Officer of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, stated that the deceased tiger is estimated to be around two years old. The tiger was located in the Kusmaha agricultural revenue area of Pataur Range, and its death is under investigation. Senior forest officials were immediately informed following the incident.

Post-Mortem and Investigation

In line with the directives of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the tiger’s body has been preserved at the site, and a detailed panchnama has been prepared. On Saturday, a qualified wildlife veterinarian will conduct a post-mortem, collect samples, and send them for laboratory testing. Following the results and standard protocols, the tiger will be given a final ceremonial burial within the reserve.

The ongoing deaths have raised alarm among conservationists and wildlife officials, highlighting the urgent need for close monitoring and investigation of tiger mortality in the reserve.