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Corbett's Tigers on the Move: 5 to Relocate for Peace
24 Nov
Summary
- Uttarakhand plans to relocate five tigers from Corbett to Rajaji National Park.
- Overcrowding in Corbett Tiger Reserve leads to territorial conflicts.
- Relocated tigers in Rajaji have successfully adapted and reproduced.
The Uttarakhand forest department is initiating a significant tiger relocation project, planning to move five tigers from Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) to Rajaji National Park. This move is prompted by the alarming rise in CTR's tiger population, now at 260, which has led to intense territorial disputes and aggressive encounters due to shrinking available habitats. Preparations are underway following a proposal to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for approval.
This translocation is part of a broader strategy to manage high tiger densities and revive populations in other reserves. Previous efforts have shown promising results, with relocated tigers successfully adapting to Rajaji's environment. Encouragingly, some of the previously relocated tigresses have given birth, signifying successful integration and a healthy prey base within Rajaji, bolstering its tiger revival program.
Wildlife experts emphasize that such relocations are scientifically justified, as Corbett's tiger density has reduced individual territories to approximately 5 sq km, significantly increasing conflict. Relocating tigers will alleviate pressure on CTR and enhance the genetic diversity of Rajaji's tiger population, contributing to the overall conservation efforts in Uttarakhand, which has the third-highest tiger count nationally.
