Tiger Population at Chandaka Sanctuary in Odisha Reaches Zero

Bhubaneswar: A recent wildlife census conducted at Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary, situated on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar in Odisha, has revealed that the tiger population in the sanctuary has become non-existent. The sanctuary has not witnessed the presence of tigers for several years.

On the other hand, the elephant population within the sanctuary has shown a significant increase in recent years, with 38 elephants now residing in the region. This increase is attributed to the availability of adequate food and a suitable environment for these animals, as well as minimal poaching-related threats.

The census, which involved the installation of 16 cameras at various locations within the sanctuary, failed to capture a single tiger pugmark. A team of forest officials, comprising 22 foresters, 28 forest guards, and 50 anti-elephant squads under the supervision of four rangers, also participated in the census but could not find any evidence of tigers in the forest.

While the decline in the tiger population is a matter of concern, the good news is the increasing number of elephants in the sanctuary. The elephant population has reached 38, with bamboo trees planted to support their habitat and dedicated forest personnel for their protection. An official census scheduled for April next year will provide a more precise count of the elephant population in the sanctuary.