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Tigers Return to Buxa After Decades!
13 Jun
Summary
- Buxa Tiger Reserve may receive two female tigers by July 29.
- Tigers could be relocated from Assam's Manas or Bihar's Valmiki.
- A tiger augmentation project was launched in 2016-17.
Buxa Tiger Reserve in north Bengal is poised to reintroduce tigers, with a target date of July 29, Global Tiger Day. Officials are considering bringing two female tigers, potentially from Assam's Manas Tiger Reserve or Bihar's Valmiki Tiger Reserve, to the reserve. This move is a significant step in the ongoing tiger augmentation project that commenced in 2016-17.
The project aims to improve Buxa's habitat and increase its prey base, alongside relocating forest villages. Relocation efforts for villages like Bhutia Basti, Gangutia, and recently Jayanti are progressing. Camera traps have captured tiger images in Buxa since 2021, indicating some presence.
Valmiki Tiger Reserve in Bihar is reportedly nearing its carrying capacity, making it a viable source for relocating tigers. The National Tiger Conservation Authority is facilitating these discussions, emphasizing wildlife management principles. The reintroduction aligns with plans to restore a stable big cat population in Buxa.
