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Karnataka Tigers Surge Past 700 Mark
9 Oct
Summary
- Karnataka may have over 700 tigers, a significant increase.
- Preliminary analysis identified 575 unique tigers using specialized software.
- Tigers are increasingly found outside protected areas, raising conflict concerns.
A preliminary analysis of tiger images suggests Karnataka's wild tiger population could surpass 700. Forest department software identified around 575 unique tigers across 50 forest divisions, encompassing both protected areas and surrounding landscapes. This estimate, if finalized, would represent a significant increase from the 2023 count of 563 tigers.
The findings indicate a positive trend for tigers within protected areas, but also highlight their expanding presence in areas outside reserves. Sanctuaries like Cauvery and Male Mahadeshwara Hills show high tiger densities, while others like Bhadra and Kali report lower numbers than anticipated.
This expansion into non-protected landscapes, however, intensifies concerns regarding human-tiger conflict. Forest department records indicate nearly 6,000 cattle have been preyed upon by tigers in these areas, with livestock forming a substantial part of their diet. The final figures from the All-India Tiger Estimate are expected in early 2027.
