A lone male tiger recently entered Papikonda National Park (PNP) from Eluru district, marking a significant movement in its habitat.
Tiger’s Journey
- Sighted initially in a maize field on January 26, the tiger traversed over 100 kilometers before entering PNP.
- Its route included densely populated agricultural fields and human habitations, with no clear indication of why it left its natural habitat.
Entry into PNP
- On February 6, the tiger safely entered PNP, facilitated by the presence of the Godavari river.
- Forest authorities confirmed its healthy condition through CCTV footage and photos, without disclosing its exact entry point for security reasons.
Safe Habitat in PNP
- Within PNP, the tiger faces fewer threats compared to human habitations.
- Tribal populations inside the park coexist peacefully with wildlife, minimizing harm to the tiger.
Monitoring and Settlement
- A team of experts, led by personnel from Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR), will monitor the tiger’s movements until it fully adapts to its new habitat.
- Abundant prey in PNP ensures sufficient food for the tiger’s sustenance.
Previous Tiger Population
- Previous surveys in 2016 recorded three tigers in the area.
- The National Tiger Conservation Authority didn’t disclose specific population figures for PNP.
Local Impact
- The tiger’s departure brought relief to local communities, allowing agricultural and cattle-rearing activities to resume without disruption.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- When did the tiger enter Papikonda National Park?
- A) February 6
- B) January 26
- C) January 6
- D) February 26
- Answer: A) February 6
- How far did the tiger travel before entering PNP?
- A) Less than 50 kilometers
- B) Approximately 200 kilometers
- C) Over 100 kilometers
- D) Around 75 kilometers
- Answer: C) Over 100 kilometers
- What was the tiger’s condition upon entering PNP?
- A) Injured
- B) Starving
- C) Healthy
- D) Weak
- Answer: C) Healthy
- Who will continue to monitor the tiger’s movements in PNP?
- A) Local villagers
- B) Forest authorities
- C) Experts from NSTR
- D) Farmers
- Answer: C) Experts from NSTR
- How many tigers were recorded in the 2016 survey?
- A) One
- B) Two
- C) Three
- D) Four
- Answer: C) Three