Watch the final walk of Arrowhead, the tigress of Ranthambore called the 'Queen of Ranthambore' and the 'Crocodile Hunter'

The iconic tigress ‘Arrowhead’ (T-84), hailed as the ‘Queen of Ranthambore’ and known for her crocodile-hunting prowess, has died at the age of 11 due to a brain tumour, forest officials confirmed on Thursday.

A granddaughter of the legendary tigress Machhli, Arrowhead carried forward a regal legacy marked by strength, resilience, and hunting mastery. She recently captured the internet’s imagination when a video of her taking down a crocodile went viral—evoking memories of her grandmother, famously known as the “Crocodile Hunter” of Ranthambore.

Arrowhead’s death sparked an outpouring of emotion from forest officials, wildlife enthusiasts, and local guides. A video believed to be her final moments has also gone viral on X (formerly Twitter), amplifying tributes from across the country.



“She embodied the legacy of Machhli, both in spirit and ferocity,” said Shakir Ali, a senior guide at the reserve.

Born in February 2014, Arrowhead was primarily seen in Zones 2 through 5 of the park, especially around Nal Ghati and Rajbagh Lake. According to Field Director Anup K R, she was not only admired for her majestic appearance but also for her significant contribution to Ranthambore’s tiger population.

The tigress gave birth four times and was the mother of 10 cubs, six of whom are still alive. Her last litter was born in 2023.

Tragically, her passing comes just days after her daughter ‘Kankati’ was relocated by the forest department following the fatal mauling of two people.

On Thursday, members of the Ranthambore Nature Guide Association and other wildlife lovers gathered to offer floral tributes before Arrowhead’s cremation.

“She was a symbol of Ranthambore’s wild soul—majestic, fearless, and unforgettable,” said Yadvendra Singh, the association’s president.