Centre clears translocation of tigers from Tadoba, Pench to Sahyadri reserve, Pg11

Key Highlights:

• The Union Environment Ministry approved the translocation of eight tigers from Tadoba-Andhari and Pench reserves to Sahyadri Tiger Reserve [STR].
• The approval was granted to the Maharashtra Chief Wildlife Warden with conditions for veterinary care and minimal trauma during the operation.
• Initially, two tigresses will be translocated from Tadoba Tiger Reserve by December.
• Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, spread over 1,165 sq km, was notified in 2010, combining Chandoli National Park and Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary.

Detailed Insights:

• The translocation aims to revive the tiger population in the northern Western Ghats, where breeding tigers have not colonized despite rich vegetation.
• The Wildlife Institute of India [WII] gave a positive appraisal of the preparations to host translocated tigers in Sahyadri Tiger Reserve.
• Translocated tigers will be kept in a temporary enclosure for a soft release into the wild, with a focus on augmenting the prey base.
• Studies suggest that Sahyadri reserve can potentially host over 20 tigers, with three male tigers already recorded in the area.
• The National Tiger Conservation Authority [NTCA] recommended the translocation project in October 2023 as part of the second phase of a tiger recovery plan.
• Reviving tigers in Sahyadri Tiger Reserve is crucial for protecting forests, watersheds, and maintaining habitat connectivity in the Western Ghats.
• Sahyadri Tiger Reserve forms the catchment for Koyna and Warna rivers, vital for livelihoods in neighboring districts.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Translocation: The process of capturing and moving animals from one location to another.
• Soft Release: Conservation practice where animals are temporarily held in enclosures at release sites before being set free.
• Habitat Connectivity: The degree to which landscapes allow for animal movement and gene flow.