Two Tigers Perish in Madhya Pradesh Within 24 Hours Amid Territorial Conflicts
Madhya Pradesh has witnessed the tragic loss of two tigers in separate incidents over a 24-hour period, with both deaths attributed to territorial clashes. This brings the total number of big cat fatalities in the state to approximately 16 so far in 2026, raising significant concerns among wildlife officials and conservationists.
Deaths Occur as National Tiger Census Nears Conclusion
The incidents coincide with the concluding stages of the All-India Tiger Estimation-2026 (AITE-26), the sixth cycle of the nationwide tiger census. This timing underscores the urgency of addressing threats to tiger populations in key habitats.
Kanha Tiger Reserve Loses Popular Tigress Sunaina
In Mandla district, the carcass of tigress Sunaina (T-122) was discovered near Sijhora Road in the Kanhari beat of the Kanha range. Sunaina, approximately 10 years old, was one of the reserve's most renowned and frequently sighted big cats, beloved by tourists from India and abroad.
Field Director Ravindra Mani Tripathi, along with a team of veterinarians, promptly arrived at the scene. A dog squad was also deployed to thoroughly scan the area for clues. Officials noted that the tigress sustained deep injuries across her body.
"Prima facie, it appears to be a case of a territorial fight with another tiger," stated an officer. All body parts were found intact, and viscera samples have been sent for forensic analysis to determine the precise cause of death.
Forest officials conducted Sunaina's last rites in accordance with National Tiger Conservation Authority guidelines, with officials and local representatives in attendance.
Satpura Tiger Reserve Cub Killed in Suspected Clash
In a separate incident in Narmadapuram district, the carcass of a four-month-old cub was found in the Nayakheda area of the Matkuli range within Satpura Tiger Reserve. The cub is believed to have been killed during a clash between tigers.
Forest staff were alerted after hearing loud roars from two tigers late on Saturday evening. A patrol team rushed to the location and discovered the cub dead, securing the area overnight.
On Sunday morning, officials identified pugmarks of both a male and a female tiger near the site. Based on these signs and injury marks, they concluded that the cub was likely killed in an attack related to territorial behavior.
"All procedures were carried out as per protocol. Prima facie, the injuries suggest it was killed by another carnivore, most likely a tiger," explained an officer.
Officials Emphasize Timely Response and Protocol Adherence
APCCF (Wildlife) L Krishnamurthy confirmed that forest teams reached both sites within hours of the incidents and followed all prescribed protocols diligently. "The response was timely and procedures were carried out as per norms," he assured.
Satpura Reserve Grapples with Multiple Tiger Deaths
Satpura Tiger Reserve has reported several tiger fatalities over the past nine months alone. In August, a tiger was found dead in the Madhai area, suspected to be from a territorial fight. Another tiger carcass was later discovered in Churna under suspicious circumstances.
In January, a tigress died due to illness in Tawa Nagar, while in March, a tiger was found buried in Chhindwara, with suspicions of electrocution or poisoning. Wildlife activist Ajay Dubey has called for more intensive patrolling in the region to prevent further losses.
Positive News from Gwalior Zoo
Amidst these somber events, Gwalior's Gandhi Zoological Park offers a glimmer of hope. A white tigress named Mira gave birth to three healthy cubs on Sunday afternoon, increasing the zoo's total tiger population to 10.
Zoo in-charge Dr. Upendra Yadav reported that the litter includes two Royal Bengal cubs and one white tiger cub, all in good health and under close observation. Mira is also safe and being monitored carefully.
The newborn cubs have been placed in isolation as a precautionary measure. A team of veterinarians is conducting regular health checks, while the tigress is receiving a light and nutritious diet. With these new additions, the zoo now houses four white tigers and six Royal Bengal tigers, including the cubs.
Officials have made special arrangements for the care of the cubs in line with Central Zoo Authority guidelines, ensuring their well-being and contributing to conservation efforts.
