Tiger population shows signs of growth, as tigress gives birth to 4 cubs in Navegaon Nagzira Tiger Reserve

Wildlife conservationists can celebrate a win after news of a tigress giving birth to four chubby and healthy cubs at the Navegaon Nagzira Tiger Reserve (NNTR) in Mahashtra's Gondia district, said officials. The tigress, which has been identified as tigress T-4 was seen moving around with four cubs born in a single litter, according to officials from NNTR.

Moreover, two other tigresses from the Bramhapuri range (in Chandrapur district) are also expected to be released in the NNTR soon, they said.

The new additions are a good sign that the tiger population in the reserve is all set to go up further. The cubs are believed to be four to five months old, an official said.


According to a recent All India Tiger Estimation report, currently there are 12 to 17 tigers at the NNTR.

With the sighting of T-4 with four cubs and translocation of two big cats on cards, there would be new challenges before the NNTR management, honorary wildlife warden Sawan Bahekar said in an interview with PTI.

The authorities have to ensure protection of the cubs and also regularly monitor movement of the two new felines to be released in the reserve, he said.

"There may be some conflict situation and natural threats. The management also requires to make efforts to prevent any man-made threat for the felines. It would also have to be ensured that the tigers stay inside the core areas and do not move out often," Bahekar said.

(With inputs from PTI)