A writer by day and a reader at night. Emerging from an Engineering background, Diksha is a travel freak and anxious to explore different cultures and religions. Inclined towards the off-beat places, she wishes to uncover the secrets on her Scooty (if possible). She always grabs some time to take a quick nap, listen to music, skating and eat a brownie.
India to welcome Cheetahs from Africa for the first time in 7 decades In 1952, the cheetah, the world’s fastest land animal was declared extinct in India. On Sunday, Vijay Shah, state Forest Minister said that the creature is expected to be re-introduced in the nation this year in November at the Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. Madhya Pradesh is a famous tiger safari destination in India as it has some renowned National Parks and Tiger Reserves of India.
In 1947, India’s last spotted cheetah died in Chhattisgarh. Further, in 1952, it was declared extinct in the nation. A few years ago, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) prepared a cheetah re-introduction project. Earlier the Supreme Court gave its nod to introduce African cheetahs to suitable Indian habitat on an experimental basis.
Shah informed that they have initiated the procedure of making an enclosure for around 10 cheetahs, including 5 females to be brought to Kuno in Sheopur district from South Africa. He further added that it is going to be completed by August. He continued that according to the plan, Indian officials will be sent to South Africa for training and sensitization in June and July this year. This training is important step for India to welcome Cheetahs from Africa into its environment. The transference of the cheetahs will happen in October and November.
Situated in the Chambal area, Kuno is sprawled over a region of over 750 sq. km. It has a conducive environment for cheetahs in India, he told. Shah informed that the protected area, having a considerable population of chinkara, four-horned antelopes, nilgai, spotted deer, wild boar, and sambar, has a good prey base for the cheetahs.
Continuing further, the minister said that as per the approved timeline sent to them by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change this week, the proposed budget expenditure of the ‘Project Cheetah’ is Rs. 1,400 lakh fiscal. Shah told that next month NTCA, the National Tiger Conservation Authority is about to announce the money for the project to the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) at Dehradun and MP. According to a forest official, an expert from South Africa visited the Kuno National Park this year on April 26. He was accompanied by the scientists from the WII. They inspected the habitat and facilities created there for the welcome of African cheetahsin India. It was approved by them and lately, the final the procedure of bringing the cheetahs is afoot.
Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests J S Chauhan told that last year the experts from the WII had visited 4 places in MP earlier to search for the best habitat for bringing the African cheetahs in India.
Chauhan told that the WII team has visited the Kuno National Park in MP’s Sheopur district, the Gandhi Sagar sanctuary, the Nauradehi sanctuary, and the Madhav National Park. Referring to the tiger reintroduction program in the Panna Tiger Reserve in 2009, Chauhan told that Madhya Pradesh had in the past been home to cheetahs. The state boasts of long conservation history, they have the habitat. They also have a successful animal translocation track record.
Last year, the Supreme Court set up a 3-member committee to guide the NTCA on the cheetah re-introduction project. Under the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) red list of threatened species, the Cheetah is considered vulnerable. This is in addition to a diminishing population of less than 7,000 found primarily in African savannas. The panel has asked the WII to carry out a technical evaluation of all possible places for the re-introduction of cheetah in India.
Best destinations for spotting black panthers in India
If the mere mention of the Black Panther excites you, then this blog will surely pump your adrenaline rush. Hold your breath as you’re about to spot your favorite ‘Bagheera’ aka the black panther at these best wildlife destinations in India. Imagine dense woods, ultimate serenity and that mysterious look from the black beauty who has noticed you while you might not have yet! The thrill and the feelings to spot a black panther are undoubtedly beyond description.
From Kabini to Tadoba and Pench, my list covers all the possible wildlife sanctuaries where you can end your quest to find a black panther in India. Although rare in the country, these wild cats can be surely found at the following wildlife safari destinations in India. Take a look!
You will be visibly excited and overjoyed to spot a black panther in Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary. For many years, black panthers were believed to be extremely rare or more mythical. But the latest photography evidence shows the presence of the elusive black beauty in the deep jungles of Kabini. Famous as ‘The Ghost of Kabini’, this wild creature presents a sight to behold when spotted. An integral part of the Nagarhole National Park, this forest reserve along the Kabini River is sure to make your wildlife holidays in India a memorable affair.
Other attractions:
Fauna – herds of elephants, jaguars, tigers, various species of birds
Also visit – Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary, Kabini River, Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time to Visit Kabini Wildlife Reserve: From November till May
How to Reach Kabini Forest Reserve: An 80 km drive from Mysore leads you straight to Kabini.
No wonder finding a black panther in India is a special experience but their presence in Tadoba makes it extraordinary. Making sudden appearances out of nowhere, these melanistic leopards make your jungle safari experience a surreal one. The dense bushes in this oldest and largest national park in Maharashtra make it a perfect hideout for this black creature to stay. Whenever on a jungle safari in Tadoba in hunt of the black panther do carefully listen to the sound of animals around as they raise an alarm and start making noises. Take it as a special cue that you’re lucky enough that the big wild cat is somewhere nearby and you might spot him soon.
Black Panther- Tadoba (Image courtesy- Google)
Other attractions:
Fauna – tigers, wild dogs, sloth bear, small Indian civet, and a variety of avifaunal species
Also visit – Kolsa Lake, Tadoba Lake and Tadoba River
Best Time to Visit Tadoba Andhari National Park: From mid-October to June end
How to Reach Tadoba: The park is 140 km away from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. Also, a 45 km drive from Chandrapur helps one to reach the park easily.
Spotting a black panther in the jungles of Pench is one of the best things to do in India for wildlife lovers and avid photographers. Hop on a train, leave the hustle and bustle of the cities behind and enjoy a real wildlife trip at this park. Besides spotting the elusive big cat, one can raise the fun quotient by partaking in rafting which is quite popular here. Also, at this park feel free and take your time to observe the wildlife behavior in their natural habitat. To do so, simply embark on a jungle safari and explore every nook and cranny thoroughly. You can rest assure that you will be able to spot the ‘Bagheera’ from the famous Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book here at this ‘Mowgli’s Land’.
Other attractions:
Fauna – Royal Bengal Tiger, leopards, hyenas, porcupine, different amphibian species, four-horned antelope, peafowl, magpie robin
Also visit – Pench River, Sitaghat, Kalapahad
Best Time to Visit Pench National Park: October to March
How to Reach Pench Tiger Reserve: Nagpur lies in close proximity to Pench. It is at a distance of 77.8 km from the park.
These are just three. But there are also some sanctuaries where the black panther is spotted from time to time. The list includes Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, both in Karnataka. However, no such pieces of evidence are available. Yet one should not lose hope and keep on following the wild trails. So, pick your ranger’s hat, choose from the aforementioned wildlife destinations in India and take one step closer to the country’s exotic wild.
Feel the thrill at these popular jungle safari destinations in India
As a 90s kid, I remember the famous ‘The Jungle Book’ by Rudyard Kipling and the associated characters whenever I hear the word ‘Jungle’. And the excitement to spot my favorite creature takes me to the best tiger reserves in India that recreate the same magic. With numerous wildlife sanctuaries, tiger reserves, and national parks across the length and breadth of the country, you can rest assured of incredible wildlife holidays in India.
Home to snow leopard, royal Bengal tigers, black-spotted dear, one-horned rhino, and many more, India flaunts diverse faunal species. From Jim Corbett in the North to Periyar in the South, take your pick from the following list and embark on a wildlife safari in India.
Nestled in the heart of India, Bandhavgarh National Park presents one of the most dramatic landscapes in the country and ranks #1 as the best tiger reserve for tiger safaris in India. Reckoned one of the best destinations for tiger safari in India, the park is home to ferocious royal Bengal tigers. Besides those big cats, you can spot elephants, nilgais, chital, deer, jackals, etc. Additionally, you can opt for a birding tour. When you’ve traveled so far, it would be the icing on the cake if you visit the Bandhavgarh Fort too.
Mystic beyond description, Kanha National Park is the place that inspired Rudyard Kipling to pen down his famous book The ‘Jungle Book’. Although you will find a wide variety of faunal species like python, leopard, barasingha, etc. alive here Sher Khan (Bengal Tiger) steals the limelight. Undoubtedly it is one of the best places for a tiger safari in India. Embark on an exhilarating jeep safari and witness your children excited to the next level as they spot wild creatures up close in their natural habitat. While on the trip don’t forget to observe the Sal trees that add charm to the place.
Flaunting unique natural scenic beauty, Tadoba National Park beguiles visitors for many reasons. Also famed as Todoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, this national park is the oldest and the largest in Maharashtra. Plan an exciting safari to spot wild denizens like a rusty-spotted cat, leopard, sloth bear, gaur, barking deer, etc. Additionally, rare ones like a flying squirrel, ratel, and pangolin also share space with other faunal species. Not to forget, the presence of those wild tigers makes this park one of the best tiger safari destinations in India.
Once a royal hunting preserve, Ranthambore National Park sets the standards for exceptional wildlife safari holidays in India. Known for bird-watching tours and tiger trails, the park is the best place to sight an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Enjoy watching the vultures soaring in circles high above or spotting the crocodile basking in the sunshine. From the elusive Indian wolf to the blue bull antelope, you will find them all here. But it is the elusive tiger that remains the highlight of Best Jungle safari in India. Don’t forget to listen to the historical legends associated with the noteworthy Ranthambore Fort located nearby.
Early October till June is the time when the park remains open for Jungle Safaris in India. However, the summer season is the best time for tiger sighting in Ranthambore.
How to reach:
By Air – Jaipur Airport (180 km)
By Train – Sawai Madhopur Railway Station (14.6 km),
Entitled as Asia’s very first National Park, Jim Corbett is a distinguished resident of the Tigers. For this reason, it is one of the most visited tourist places for Tiger Safaris In India. Inheriting its name from very popular British naturalist and writer Edward James Corbett, the park lures visitors from far and near. Apart from Bengal Tiger, the park accommodates 488 different species of plants and other faunal species as well. Notably, yellow-throated martens, crested serpent eagle, barking deer, blossom-headed parakeet, Indian elephants, sambar deer, and Indian python can also be spotted here. Gharials and crocodiles can be sighted lazing along the Ramganga River.
Treat your eyes, ears, and nose to some of the best sights, sounds, and smell at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Dive into this wonderful and wild place to behold the sight of elephants which is the main attraction and tigers as well. The ethereal beauty of the Western Ghats that surrounds the sanctuary adds to its charm. To put it differently, the park is a heaven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. When here taking a boat ride on Periyar Lake is an absolute must.
Your quest for those big cats will surely lead you to Bandipur National Park. Inhabiting rich biodiversity, the park is obviously one of the best destinations for wildlife safari in India. Offering a lifetime of experiences, the tiger reserves keeps you busy not just with jungle safaris but also with bird watchingin India. If the sighting of vulnerable and endangered species like gaurs, Indian elephants, changeable hawk-eagle, tigers, Indian rock pythons, etc. excites you then Bandipur is definitely the right place for you.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sunderbans is a place where tigers are a hot topic. Rumors are whether you might have spotted a tiger or not but he has surely spotted you. Besides those elusive cats swimming in the water, you will sight macaques, fishing cats, Olive Ridley turtles, wild boar, etc. while crossing the dense mangroves. Counted as one of the best tiger reserves of India, the marshland is part of the Ganges delta, the world’s largest delta. Thus, no wonder beautiful estuaries and roaring rivers make the place more magical.
Nestled in the heart of Assam, Kaziranga National Park holds the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surprisingly, the place is renowned for inhabiting the largest population of the Great Indian one-horned rhinoceros in the world. Furthermore, the park is the best place to pacify your adrenaline rush for wildlife safaris. Numerous water bodies in the park provide exciting opportunities for wildlife sightseeing. In addition to rhinos, you can spot elephants, Asiatic water buffaloes, tigers, swamp deer, and many avifaunal species among others.
Last but not least in the list of best wildlife safari destinations in India, Gir National Park is a place to be if you want to hear the roar of the Asiatic Lions. A sparkling gem in the crown of Gujarat, the park is blessed with rich biodiversity. So, grab an opportunity to go for a wildlife safari to see jackals, leopards, hyenas, the Indian fox and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Add to it the amazing floral species that you’re going to witness here. A wide variety of birds also flock here to amuse the guests.
So these were some of the best destinations for wildlife safari in India in a nutshell. There are a lot many. But as for now, without much ado, book your tickets and get ready to admire the Indian wilderness like never before.
A few days earlier, Twitter was buzzing with the rare pictures of a black panther in the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary. And it seems during the lockdown, nature has decided to surprise the wildlife lovers one after the other. Given that, the microblogging site is active again with pictures of yet another rare and majestic big cat – the golden tiger.
Spotted in Kaziranga, the big cat is the only known to be alive golden tiger in India.
Parveen Kaswan, IFS Officer took Twitter to share the pictures of the golden beauty. The tweet stated: ”Do you know in #India we have a Golden #Tiger also.”It further mentioned that “Only documentation of such big cat in 21st century on the planet… Look at this beauty”. He additionally informed that Mayuresh Hendre, a wildlife photographer has clicked the image.
Due to the splendid colour, the golden tiger is also famous as the “tabby tiger” or “strawberry tiger”.
Kaswan further wrote that golden cats like this were rare. He added thata gene-mutation in the species is the cause of their existence.
The IFS Officer also tweeted pictures of the same tiger that he earlier shared in 2019.
Soon Twittaris started flooding the social media site with pictures of the same tiger that they claim to have been clicked by them.
Kaswan remains active on Twitter. He has usually shared pictures if diverse and unusual wildlife spotted across India.
Enjoy your next escape into the wilderness at the top 10 resorts in Bandhavgarh
Heaven for wildlife lovers, Bandhavgarh is not only known for Royal Bengal Tigers but also for offering a memorable stay. Located in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh is also known as the ‘Tiger Capital of India‘. The best resorts in Bandhavgarh help you retreat into the lap of nature while cherishing unmatched hospitality. Featuring comfortable accommodation options and top-notch facilities, these resorts will surely pamper you to the core.
Imagine waking up to the sound of nature and feeling the adrenaline rush to spot those ‘big cats’! In other words, these best places to stay in Bandhavgarh enable you to take home a bag full of memories. Here’s a list of handpicked resorts where you can plan your next much-awaited holiday to enjoy pure jungle bliss.
Once famed as the ChurhatKothi, Taj MahuaKothi is considered as a high-end resort in Bandhavgarh and top in our list of 10 Best resorts in Bandhavgarh. Sprawled across a whopping area of 40 acres, this property is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay during your family holidays. From design to the location, everything about the resort will make you fall in love with it. Delight in a wonderful stay in jungle village huts offering authentic yet a matchless experience.
What’s special?
Pick from a wide range of dining options which is the signature feature of this resort. From eating under the shade of a Mahua tree to the star-lit sky, you are going to love this for sure.
Adding to the experience is the breakfast which is served on the bonnet of the 4X4 tour jeep.
Rejuvenate your senses availing relaxing massages at the spa.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
True to its name, the Kings Lodge allows you to experience royalty at its best. King’s Lodge ranks 2nd in the list of 10 Best Resorts in Bandhavgarh Set amidst the Ranch village, this property is known to engage its guests in several things. First, the modern facilities will leave you spoilt for your choice. Second, the soothing surroundings will make you forget the chaotic city life immediately. Add to this first-hand experience of the wildlife in their natural habitat. For these reasons, it is considered one of the best luxury resorts in Bandhavgarh National Park.
What’s special?
A multi-cuisine dining hall featuring a fireplace that overlooks the expanses of wild grasslands.
Enjoy directly from ‘Farm to table’ culture.
Pacify your adrenaline rush for spotting rare species of birds as you go for bird watching from the Machan.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
Outstanding amongst the rest, Samode Safari Lodgeassures make your wildlife tour exceptional at unbeatable prices. Equipped with the latest amenities, the resort gives you a feel of home away from home. Your comfort is their utmost priority and hence they leave no stone unturned for the same. Reckoned as the world’s 50 best honeymoon hotels and destinations, this wonderful place delights your senses with an unparalleled experience.
What’s special?
Massages offered at the Spa here are sure to refresh your mind, body, and soul.
Indulge in a thrilling experience as you get introduced to the sounds and sights of the Jungle.
Enjoy a good night’s sleep in your tranquil, spacious, and comfortable villa.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
Nestled in close proximity to the Tala gate of the park, Bandhav Vilas serves as the perfect base for a memorable wildlife safari. Equipped with modern amenities, this place tops the list of best luxury resorts in Bandhavgarh. After your exciting tour, spend a leisurely evening sipping a perfect cup of coffee at the sun-kissed sit-out. Moreover, the luxurious ambiance and heritage settings are sure to mesmerize you.
What’s special?
They serve homemade vegetarian only and also the vegetables are harvested on their own.
You can spot innumerable varieties of birds and varieties of butterflies in the vegetable garden.
They allow you to participate in classical music performances held here in the evening.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
Featuring gracefully furnished cottages, Nature Heritage Resort is one of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts in Madhya Pradesh and makes in our list of 10 Best resorts in Bandhavgarh. Designed to allow it to blend itself with its beautiful environs, this resort is indeed a nature lover’s paradise. Additionally, with experienced tiger experts by your side, you can rest assured that you will track one of those big cats. Adorning the heart of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, this resort will lure you to visit here again and again.
What’s special?
Treat your taste buds not only with Indian but also continental delicacies under a thatched roof or open restaurants.
Soak in the tranquillity while unwinding yourself in your personal verandah.
Relax your tired muscles by availing soothing massages at the spa.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
If there is a way out to experience nature at its best, it’s only by blending harmoniously with it. With this in mind, you should undoubtedly choose Tree House Hideaway Resort. If you want to give your family a holiday of a lifetime, just bring them here. Exclusively crafted treehouses eagerly await your presence to make your stay equally enthralling.
What’s special?
Roam around the place to sight resident fauna in their natural habitat.
Treat your eyes to the astounding views of the Bandhavgarh Fort and Tiger Reserve.
Gather your friends, sing songs, chit-chat, dine and remember good old days as you take time out for a bonfire.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
Situated amidst the dramatic settings, Mogli Jungle Resort will make your visit a joyful one. Ranked as one of the best budget-friendly resorts in Bandhavgarh, this lavish property has something for everyone. Start your day praising the dreamlike views outside and thereafter get ready for the adventure you were longing for. Go for a nature walk or just spend the day reading a book in the library. The choice is yours!
What’s special?
Tribal Dance performance is sure to transform your evening into a memorable one.
Attend the photography workshop to know the tricks to capture candid shots during the safari.
Enjoy fine dining while overlooking Bandhavgarh Fort.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
If you think of getting the most out of your holidays without spending a fortune then Bagh Sarai Resort is for you. The property is located in the village of Parasi. For this reason, it not only makes your jungle trip memorable but also gives you a chance to live a village life. Furthermore, the stunning getaway features rustic ambiance, modern amenities, and a natural environment all under a single roof.
What’s special?
Here you will learn how they have maintained to make everything out of wood but without actually cutting any tree.
They consider their guests as family members.
The traditional look is given to the Bungalows also known ‘Jhopri’ will surely spellbind you.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
Outstanding amongst the rest, Lemon Tree Wildlife Resort assures you to make your wildlife tour exceptional at unbeatable prices. Equipped with the latest amenities, the resort gives you a feel of home away from home. Your comfort is their utmost priority and hence they leave no stone unturned for the same. Bounded by the Sal tree forest, this wonderful place delights your senses with an unparalleled experience.
What’s special?
Be it a central fireplace or outdoor shower area, they have it just right.
Indulge in an unwinding experience while getting close to Mother Nature.
Enjoy a good night’s sleep in your spacious and comfortable room.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
A fresh breeze is sure to greet you the moment you enter WelcomHeritageJukasoSalvan Resort. With air-conditioned cottages, the property soothes your senses like no other. Morning dew and the chirping of birds will make you forget about the hustle and bustle of the fast pacing world. Time seems to stop here and nature appears to be a permanent guest.
What’s special?
Relish delicious dishes served at the multi-cuisine restaurant here.
Go for a morning or evening walk in the garden.
The swimming pool is always ready to refresh you with its crystal clear water.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
The list of best resorts in Bandhavgarh is quite elaborate. These are just a few. Pick your favorite or feel free to suggest or add yours! Check out our Destination Guide to Bandhavgarh for more interesting details.
India’s 2018 tiger census makes its place in Guinness Book of World Records as the largest camera –trap wildlife survey
Camera trap Tiger from Simlipal tiger reserve Image Courtesy Google
On Saturday, India’s 2018 tiger census has entered Guinness Book of World Record for being the largest camera-trap wildlife survey.
Prakash Javadekar, Minister of Environment, Forest & Climate Change proudly shared the news on Twitter. He further claimed that 4 years prior to the target, India was able to double the count of the tigers in the nation.
Javadekar’s Tweet stated that the country successfully achieved its resolution to double the tiger count four years ahead of the target. This was possible through #SankalpSeSiddhi under the leadership of honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Additionally, he mentioned that The All India Tiger Estimation has set a new #GuinnessWorldRecord for being the largest camera-trap #wildlife survey. Moreover, he also said that this is indeed a great moment and a shining example of #AatmanirbharBharat!
The paired camera traps were positioned at 139 study sited across 26,760 different spots. 35 million pictures were generated including 51,337 leopard and 76,523 tiger pictures.
India was home to 2,967 tigers in 2018. According to the tiger estimation report of 2018, more than half of the tiger population called Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh are their home.
Image Courtesy- Google
The last census in 2014 revealed the total estimate of 2,226. Since then there was a population hike of approximately 33 percent.
Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi shared the data while announcing that the population of tigers had increased from 2226 in 2014 to 2967.
Not only a new world standard has been set in tiger census but also the amazing results have certified the efforts of India in tiger conservation.
This further indicates that India has marked its place as one of the most secure and largest habitats for the tigers.
An application was marked to the Guinness Book of World Record to verify if this was the largest wildlife survey ever conducted anywhere in the world.
Astounding pictures of rare Melanistic tiger in Odisha, India surprises many
Remember the incidence where a photographer’s (Shaaz Jung) five years of hard work led him to capture the astounding pictures of the only Melanistic leopard in India? In India’s Nagarhole National Park, this black panther named ‘Saya’ means Shadow left many in a state of shock. But this was not just the end! After ‘Saya’ which resembled ‘Bagheera’ from ‘Jungle Book, ‘ here are the flattering pictures of rare melanistic tigers. They were found only in India’s Simlipal Tiger Reserve, which is situated in Odisha. Here is a quick introduction to the novel for those who are unaware of ‘The Jungle Book.’ Written by Rudyard Kipling, this exceptional novel features Mowgli, a fictional orphaned boy. Surprisingly he was brought up amongst the wild animals in Pench National Park in what is known as the heart on India, i.e., Madhya Pradesh.
Rare Broad Black-Striped Tiger just like ‘Sher Khan’ from ‘The Jungle Book’ spotted in India – Image Source: Google
While ‘Saya’ was compared to ‘Bagheera,’ our new wild beauty with pitch black and extraordinarily broad stripes shows similarity to ‘Sher Khan.’ The tiger king named ‘Sher Khan‘ is another character from the much-reputed novel. Interestingly the character became more famous due to Soviet and Disney cartoon adaptations. No wonder, spotting of the two aforementioned rare species make us believe in the existence of the characters from the book. Interestingly, ‘Sher Khan’ flaunts stripes that are thicker and broader than those possessed by the normal tigers. Furthermore, the excessive black pigment in animals is due to a phenomenon known as ‘Melanistic’. Indeed the photographs of the black beauty featuring broad stripes have made animal lovers go gaga over it. While some expressed their happiness to discover something new, others were simply unaware of many tigers left in the Simlipal Tiger Reserve.
Experts highlight the increasing trend of melanistic tigers on inbreeding and genetic mutation. The world’s attention has now been shifted to melanistic or black breeds reproduced by the tigers in the sanctuary. It was in 2007 that the first melanistic tiger was spotted in the Simlipal Tiger Reserve. This happened because of the camera traps that were positioned by the researchers from the Wildlife Institute of India. The Odisha Forest Department conducted a recent census and marked the presence of 6-7 melanistic tigers out of 29 tigers in reserve. This count includes cubs as well.
