Tigress Released in Maharashtra’s Sahyadri Forests
Why this is here: The article details how restoring a tiger population to Sahyadri Reserve requires not only relocation, but also the involvement of local communities to mitigate conflict and ensure long-term coexistence.
A tigress named Hirkani was released into the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary within the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve after a 900-kilometer journey from Pench. Her relocation is part of Operation TARA, a program to restore tiger populations in the 1,165 square kilometer reserve. Hirkani is the third tigress introduced under this initiative.
The Sahyadri landscape, home to diverse wildlife, lacked a stable tiger population. Operation TARA aims to increase tiger numbers and genetic diversity by relocating animals from healthier populations. Currently, seven tigers reside in the reserve, including four males and three females.
Tigers play a vital role in forest health by controlling herbivore populations and promoting vegetation recovery. Forest teams will monitor Hirkani via radio collar to track her adaptation. The success of the program also relies on community involvement, mirroring initiatives like the ‘bagh mitras’ program in Uttar Pradesh, which fosters coexistence between people and tigers.