Odisha s tiger population rose to 30, including 8 cubs. Similipal Tiger Reserve is now home to 27 tigers, with 13 being pseudo-melanistic. The survey conducted by the National Tiger Conservation Authority recorded the increase from 20 and praised the forest department s efforts.
The wildlife wing of the forest department will introduce VSAT technology to ensure seamless satellite connectivity for its field personnel in Similipal and Satkosia tiger reserves. This will enable better coordination and communication between officers and field staff.
India News: Get the latest news on the discovery of a dead Royal Bengal tiger in Similipal tiger reserve. Learn more about the investigation into the cause of death.
Personnel of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) deployed in Similipal have been given camouflage uniform akin to the one worn by black cat commandos as part of the revamp to augment protection measures in the reserve known for its melanistic tigers.
Black or pseudo-melanistic tigers exist because of a genetic quirk that creates a unique phenotype. The Simlipal Tiger Reserve is the only habitat where these cats are found in the wild. More than 60% of Simlipal's tigers are 'black', according to Govt data