Baripada: In a significant development for wildlife conservation, the second translocated tigress, Zeenat, was released into the core area of Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district on Sunday night. This comes ten days after Zeenat was placed in a soft enclosure within STR, following her relocation from the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) in Maharashtra.
The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden, Susanta Nanda, confirmed the release, stating, “Tigress Zeenat was released from its soft enclosure into the North Division Core Area of Similipal at late night on Sunday. The new addition, brought as part of the inter-state translocation program, is expected to enhance genetic diversity in Similipal’s tiger population.”
Zeenat, aged approximately three years, undertook a 40-hour journey in a specially equipped vehicle with a dedicated 10-member team from STR. Following her arrival on November 15, she underwent a 12-hour observation period before being introduced to the soft enclosure.
This marks the second successful translocation under the program, following the earlier release of tigress Jamuna in Similipal’s south division core area in October. Both tigresses are equipped with radio collars for 24-hour monitoring by the Forest Department.
Addressing Inbreeding and Genetic Health
Similipal Tiger Reserve currently houses 27 tigers, including 13 pseudo-melanistic tigers, a condition caused by inbreeding. This genetic disorder poses long-term risks to the survival of normal yellow-coated Royal Bengal Tigers. The introduction of Zeenat and Jamuna aims to combat inbreeding by infusing a fresh gene pool.
According to forest officials, a detailed proposal has been prepared to translocate six more tigers from Central India to STR. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) will be approached soon to facilitate this ambitious project.
A Historic Move for Odisha’s Wildlife
The translocation is a milestone for Odisha’s tiger conservation efforts after a similar program in 2018 faced setbacks. That initiative involved relocating tigers to Satkosia Tiger Reserve, which was suspended after one tiger died and another was sent back due to conflicts with local villagers.
Similipal’s success story, however, is shaping up differently, with enhanced protection measures and meticulous planning. The NTCA has also approved plans to introduce three more tigers in the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary from Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
As Similipal welcomes Zeenat and Jamuna, hopes are high for the revival and sustainability of Odisha’s tiger population, further cementing the state’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
