Wildlife authorities in Sikkim have recorded a remarkable sighting of a Royal Bengal Tiger at an unprecedented altitude of 3,640 meters (11,942 ft) within the Pangalokha Wildlife Sanctuary. This marks the highest reported elevation for a tiger encounter in India, highlighting the species’ remarkable adaptability and resilience.
The discovery was made during a routine camera-trap survey conducted by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) in collaboration with the Sikkim Forest Department. The captured footage revealed a healthy and active tiger roaming through the alpine meadows, a habitat previously not considered a regular haunt for these majestic creatures.
This exceptional sighting has sparked excitement and curiosity among conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The presence of a tiger at such an altitude suggests that the species might be expanding its range in response to changing environmental conditions and prey availability.
Further research and monitoring efforts are now underway to better understand the ecological significance of this discovery and to ensure the long-term survival of tigers in this high-altitude ecosystem. The BNHS and the Sikkim Forest Department are working together to develop comprehensive conservation strategies that prioritize the protection of these magnificent animals and their fragile habitat.