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Rare Black Tiger Mom's Cubs Thrive in Odisha
21 Jun
Summary
- A translocated tigress gave birth to four cubs in Similipal.
- The cubs are of a rare pseudo-melanistic (black) tiger variant.
- This event marks a success in reversing genetic decline in Similipal.
A rare sight of a tigress, Zeenat, carrying her four cubs in her mouth was captured by a camera trap in Odisha's Similipal Tiger Reserve on May 28, 2026. Zeenat was one of two tigers translocated from Maharashtra's Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in 2024 to address genetic issues within Similipal's tiger population. The reserve faced a 'genetic collapse' due to inbreeding and a concerning rise in pseudo-melanistic tigers.
Pseudo-melanistic tigers, a rare variant of Bengal tigers, possess a genetic mutation causing dark, widened stripes. Zeenat's translocation aimed to introduce new genetic diversity, a critical step identified by molecular ecologist Uma Ramakrishnan's 2021 research which noted Similipal's small, isolated population. Previous translocations in India, such as to Satkosia Tiger Reserve in 2018, had faced challenges, including poaching and local resistance.
Following extensive preparation and learning from past setbacks, Zeenat's journey involved inter-state coordination after she briefly moved into Jharkhand and West Bengal before being recaptured. She was released back into Similipal in April 2025. After mating with a local male, T45, she successfully delivered the four cubs in May 2026. This successful breeding is seen as a vital step in revitalizing Similipal's tiger population, which currently stands at 32 individuals.
