Tigress Tragically Dies in Pench Tiger Reserve: Suspected Poisoning
In a distressing incident within the Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Maharashtra, a fully grown tigress tragically passed away on Monday evening. Pench field director Prabhu Nath Shukla expressed grave concern, suggesting that the tigress's untimely demise may be attributed to suspected poisoning. This marks the third tiger fatality in the past five days and the 11th in Maharashtra over the last three months, raising significant alarms among conservationists and wildlife officials.
The incident unfolded in compartment number 531 within the Kutumba beat of the East Pench range on the Sillari side. Eyewitnesses, including tourists on an evening safari, recounted observing the tigress near the irrigation pump house area. The majestic animal was seen drinking water before exhibiting signs of distress, including agonal breathing and vomiting. Despite efforts to aid the tigress, she tragically succumbed to her condition shortly thereafter, leaving both tourists and officials stunned.
Due to the darkness prevailing at the time, a post-mortem examination could not be conducted immediately. However, officials have scheduled the autopsy for Tuesday, adhering to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) protocol, in order to ascertain the precise cause of death.
This unfortunate incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by tiger conservation efforts in the region and highlights the urgent need for enhanced protection measures to safeguard these endangered species.
