Patna : The Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) forest authorities are preparing to send one tiger and two tigresses to West Bengal’s Buxa Tiger Reserve as part of an effort to strengthen its tiger population and support breeding.
A tigress from VTR was sent to Buxa Tiger Reserve about a week ago. The transfer of a male tiger is now being planned within the next 25 days, followed by two more tigresses within the next four months.
The plan comes as VTR’s tiger population has increased significantly over the past two decades, creating both conservation opportunities and growing pressure on available habitat.
One Tiger And Two Tigresses To Follow
Buxa Tiger Reserve, located in West Bengal’s Alipurduar district, is working to increase its tiger population by creating a suitable breeding population.
According to forest officials, suitable tigers have already been identified at VTR for the proposed transfers.
The plan is to establish a balanced male-female population in Buxa that can support breeding and help increase the reserve’s tiger population over time.
The transfer process is being advanced at the level of senior forest officials. Experts and senior officials are expected to visit Bihar before the next phase, subject to suitable weather conditions.
VTR Tiger Population Rises Sharply
VTR was established as India’s 18th tiger reserve in 1989-90. The reserve initially had only a small tiger population.
Improved conservation measures, availability of water and prey, and an increase in herbivore populations have helped the tiger population grow steadily.
According to available figures, VTR had six tigers in 2006, eight in 2010, 28 in 2014 and 31 in 2018.
The number increased to 54 in 2022-23, while the 2026 population is reported to be above 70. The latest 2026 figure, however, is yet to be officially announced.
Growing Tiger Population Creates Habitat Pressure
The increase in tiger numbers has also created challenges in ensuring adequate territory for the animals.
A male tiger generally requires around 100–120 square kilometres of territory, while a tigress may require about 60–70 square kilometres, according to the report.
With increasing pressure on available habitat, incidents of tigers moving towards human habitation have also been reported in areas around the reserve.
Translocating selected animals to other suitable tiger habitats can therefore help support conservation efforts while easing population pressure in areas where tiger numbers have increased.
Forest Officials To Take Next Steps
Vikas Ahlawat, DFO, Forest Division II, Bettiah, said the plan is to send one tiger and two tigresses from VTR to Buxa Tiger Reserve.
He said the animals have been identified and that senior officials and experts from the concerned departments are expected to visit Bihar in the coming days, subject to favourable weather.
The next phase of the transfer will proceed after the necessary assessment and approval process is completed.
