Why is tigress Yamuna not mating in Kuldiha wildlife sanctuary?

Tigress Yamuna is not mating because Kuldiha wildlife sanctuary currently has no resident male tiger.

What are the concerns for Similipal's tiger population?

There are concerns about low genetic diversity and the high prevalence of pseudo-melanistic tigers, which can indicate inbreeding.

Has tigress Yamuna returned to Similipal Tiger Reserve?

No, Yamuna has remained in Kuldiha wildlife sanctuary for over a year and has not returned to Similipal.

Home / Environment / Odisha Wildlife: No Mate for Yamuna, Breeding Concerns Rise

Odisha Wildlife: No Mate for Yamuna, Breeding Concerns Rise

20 Jan

•

Summary

Tigress Yamuna remains isolated in Kuldiha sanctuary for over a year.
The sanctuary lacks a resident male tiger for Yamuna to mate with.
Concerns grow for genetic diversity in Similipal's tiger population.

Odisha Wildlife: No Mate for Yamuna, Breeding Concerns Rise

Tigress Yamuna, released into the wild in October 2024, remains in Odisha's Kuldiha wildlife sanctuary, over a year after its release. Despite Kuldiha's contiguity with Similipal Tiger Reserve, Yamuna has not returned. Radio collar data confirms her presence within Kuldiha, with camera traps failing to document any interaction with a male tiger. This isolation raises significant concerns for the breeding prospects of the species within the region.

Wildlife officials are exploring possibilities for Yamuna's mating, either through her potential movement into Similipal territory or a male tiger venturing into Kuldiha. Meanwhile, another tigress, Zeenat, also released into Similipal, has faced similar mating uncertainties. Despite past indicators, consistent mating has not been confirmed, adding to the breeding challenges.