The Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve (NNTR), located in Bhandara and Gondia districts, recently experienced the loss of its dominant male tiger, T9. The incident highlights the challenges faced by tiger populations in maintaining territory and genetic diversity.
Discovery of the Carcass
On Sunday, a forest guard discovered the carcass of T9, a roughly 10-year-old tiger, in compartment number 96 near the Nagzira tourism complex. Field director Jayerame Gowda indicated that the cause of death appears to be linked to a territorial fight with another male tiger.
Evidence of a Territorial Battle
Gowda suggested that the attacker was likely a robust male from the buffer zone who had ventured into the core area of Nagzira in search of a mate. T9’s carcass showed severe injuries on its neck, forehead, and forelimbs, which indicate that the confrontation was fierce.
Recent Reintroductions of Tigresses
In recent months, the NNTR has seen the reintroduction of three tigresses. In May 2023, two tigresses, NT1 and NT2, were released into the park. NT2 has since left, while NT1 continues to inhabit both the buffer and core areas. Additionally, a third tigress, NT3, was released in April and is currently moving within the park.
Impact on Male Tigers
The presence of these tigresses is believed to have attracted the attention of the male from the buffer zone, leading to the deadly confrontation with T9. Male tigers are known for fiercely guarding their territories, and conflicts can occur as they battle for dominance and mating rights.
Memorial for T9
The remains of T9 were cremated in the presence of honorary warden Sawan Bahekar, Rupesh Nimbarte, Chatrapal Choudhary, and veterinarians. The loss of T9 is a significant blow to the tiger population within the reserve, as dominant males are crucial for maintaining genetic diversity and stability.
Call for Monitoring and Conservation
Bahekar emphasized the need for NNTR authorities and the forest department to closely monitor the situation and take necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the remaining tigers in the reserve.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What was the name of the dominant male tiger that recently died in the Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve?A) NT1
B) NT2
C) T9
D) NT3
Answer: C) T9
2. Where was T9’s carcass discovered?
A) Near the buffer zone
B) In compartment number 96 near the Nagzira tourism complex
C) In the core area of Nagzira
D) In a different wildlife reserve
Answer: B) In compartment number 96 near the Nagzira tourism complex
3. What did field director Jayerame Gowda suggest as the cause of T9’s death?
A) Old age
B) Illness
C) Territorial fight with another male tiger
D) Poisoning
Answer: C) Territorial fight with another male tiger
4. How many tigresses were recently reintroduced to the NNTR?
A) One
B) Two
C) Three
D) Four
Answer: C) Three
5. What is a crucial role of dominant male tigers in a reserve?
A) Establishing boundaries for other wildlife
B) Maintaining genetic diversity and stability of the population
C) Hunting prey for the reserve
D) Leading conservation efforts
Answer: B) Maintaining genetic diversity and stability of the population