In a tragic incident witnessed by tourists, a full-grown tigress met her demise in the core area of Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR), Maharashtra, prompting investigations into suspected poisoning. The incident unfolded in compartment 531 of the Kutumba beat, East Pench range on the Sillari side. This marks the third tiger death within five days and the 11th in three months in Maharashtra, emphasizing the urgency of addressing threats to these majestic creatures in their natural habitats.
On March 27, another tiger was found deceased in the Bhandara division, followed by the discovery of a mutilated carcass in South Deori, Gondia, on March 30. These consecutive losses have deepened concerns regarding tiger welfare and conservation efforts in the state.
Eyewitnesses, including tourists on an evening safari, recounted chilling accounts of the tigress’s final moments. The majestic feline was seen near the irrigation pump house area, exhibiting abnormal breathing, vomiting, and succumbing to immobility within a short span.
Authorities are considering poisoning due to the swift onset of symptoms and the absence of visible external injuries, raising suspicions of foul play or inadvertent exposure to toxic substances.
The alarming frequency of tiger deaths highlights the urgent need for heightened conservation measures and enhanced protection of endangered species. Collaboration among stakeholders, including wildlife officials, conservationists, and local communities, is essential to identify and mitigate threats such as poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict.