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Tiger Mangala Finds New Home After 6 Years of Care
8 May
Summary
- Tiger 'Mangala' moved to zoo after 6 years of specialized care.
- Tiger diagnosed with cataracts, unable to hunt or survive in wild.
- Forest department initiated unique care for abandoned tiger cub.
A female tiger, affectionately named "Mangala," has been transferred to the Thrissur Zoological Park in Puthoor, concluding nearly six years of specialized care by the Forest department. This significant move, confirmed by Chief Wildlife Warden Pramod G. Krishnan, took place on Thursday night.
Mangala's journey began on November 23, 2020, when she was discovered as an abandoned cub deep within the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Initially treated at an anti-poaching camp, she was later moved to a dedicated 2.78-hectare rehabilitation unit established in July 2021.
Veterinary assessments revealed Mangala had persistent bilateral cataracts and lens luxation, a condition that did not improve with treatment. A committee of veterinarians concluded that the complex surgery and post-operative care required for a semi-wild feline were not feasible, deeming her unfit for release into the wild.
This unique case represents a pioneering effort in South India, with the Forest department providing extensive, lifelong care for a tiger within a reserve setting. A dedicated forest protection watcher, Roy Abraham, who has cared for Mangala for six years, will continue to assist in her well-being at the Thrissur Zoological Park.
