Young tiger identified by its unique stripe pattern; tourists get a prolonged sighting during Friday’s safari
RAMTEK: In an exciting development for wildlife enthusiasts, a young male tiger, believed to be one of the five cubs of the famous F-2 tigress from Umred-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, has entered the Chorbahuli area of Pench Tiger Reserve.
The tiger, estimated to be around three to four years old, travelled from the Gothangaon zone of Umred-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary in search of an independent territory and has now established a presence in the Pench forest.
Tourists on Friday afternoon’s safari were fortunate to get a prolonged sighting of the young tiger. After feeding on a kill near the forest area, the animal was seen resting in a waterhole for some time. It later moved around the area, marking its territory at several locations.
The tiger was identified through the distinctive pattern of black stripes on its body, which is unique to every individual tiger. Wildlife researcher Piyush Akre of Deccan Drifts, along with Chorbahuli Gate forest guides Ajay Sontakke and Avinash Chaudhary, identified the animal through comparative observation of its stripe patterns.
Several photographs and videos capturing the tiger’s movements and natural behaviour were also recorded during the safari.
Wildlife experts point out that dispersal is a natural part of a tiger’s life cycle. Once young tigers reach a certain age, they leave their mother’s territory in search of independent habitats. Young males, in particular, travel across forest landscapes to establish territories of their own.
The movement of this young tiger from Umred-Karhandla to Pench highlights the importance of forest connectivity and natural wildlife corridors in facilitating the movement and survival of tigers.
His arrival has generated excitement among wildlife researchers and tourists visiting Pench Tiger Reserve.
Reporter: Ajay Mehrkule, Ramtek
