Tiger Numbers On Rise

Sabika Shrestha

Tiger is not just a wild animal; it is also an important indicator of the health of forests and biodiversity.

Nepal’s achievements in tiger conservation have become a source of inspiration to the international community.

Strict anti-poaching measures, habitat protection, use of modern technology, and active involvement of local communities have all contributed to the conservation success.

To build on these achievements, various awareness programs are being organized across the country to mark World Tiger Day.

Among many challenges including deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and illegal poaching the most pertinent is the increasing human-wildlife conflict in the buffer zones.

Experts stress the need for scientific forest management and the protection of prey species such as deer and wild boar, which are essential for sustaining the tiger population.

Tiger expert Naresh Subedi said, “The tiger is an iconic and charismatic species that plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the entire ecosystem. Therefore, conserving tigers is not just important but necessary. As conscious human beings, it is also our responsibility to protect all wildlife, including tigers, and preserve plant life on Earth in a balanced manner.

According to official data, around 16 people are attacked by tigers each year, with approximately 10 fatalities annually.

In addition, between 400 and 500 livestock are killed by tigers every year.

Reducing human-tiger conflict requires raising awareness among communities, preventing livestock from grazing close to forest areas, strengthening livestock sheds, exercising extra caution at night, and immediately informing the concerned authorities if a tiger is spotted.

Experts emphasize making local communities active partners in conservation efforts to reduce conflicts.

People living near tiger habitats must be properly educated about safety protocols to follow while entering forests. At the same time, if tigers cause any harm or damage to communities living in these areas, the affected people must receive immediate relief and full compensation,” Subedi added.

On the occasion of World Tiger Day, the latest National Tiger Survey reported that the number of Royal Bengal Tiger in Nepal has reached 429.

The survey shows an increase of 74 tigers over the past four years, compared to 355 tigers recorded in 2022.

Chitwan National Park has the highest number of tigers at 145, while Shuklaphanta National Park has the lowest, with 50.

Comparing with the figures of 2010 when the country only had 121 tigers, Nepal’s tiger conservation effort is an example in the world.