Sariska Tiger Reserve

The relocation of a five-year-old tiger, T-113, from Ranthambore Tiger Reserve to Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan, India, is a significant step towards increasing the tiger population in Sariska. This article explores the importance of this relocation and provides a brief overview of Sariska Tiger Reserve.

Tiger Population in Sariska

The relocation of T-113 to Sariska is important as the majority of the male and female tigers in the reserve have aged. Currently, there are 24 tigers in the reserve, including 10 females, seven males, and seven cubs. The relocation of T-113 is expected to increase the genetic diversity of the tiger population in Sariska, which is important for the long-term survival of the species.

Sariska Tiger Reserve

Sariska Tiger Reserve is located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, India, and covers an area of 881 km2 (340 sq mi). It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1958, recognized as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 1978, and was declared a national park in 1982. The park is situated in the Aravalli Range and the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion.

Sariska Tiger Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, jungle cats, and sambar deer. The park is also home to over 200 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. In addition to wildlife, the park also has several historical and religious sites, including the Kankwari Fort and the Pandupol Temple.

Challenges Facing Sariska Tiger Reserve

Despite being a protected area, Sariska Tiger Reserve faces several challenges. One of the main challenges is poaching, which has led to a decline in the tiger population in the reserve. In 2005, it was reported that all tigers in the reserve had been poached, leading to the relocation of several tigers from other reserves to Sariska.

Another challenge facing the reserve is habitat destruction. The park is surrounded by several villages, and human activities such as farming, grazing, and firewood collection have led to the destruction of tiger habitats. The reserve is also prone to forest fires, which further contribute to habitat destruction.

Conservation Efforts in Sariska Tiger Reserve

To address the challenges facing the reserve, several conservation efforts have been undertaken. One of the most significant efforts has been the relocation of tigers from other reserves to Sariska. This has helped to increase the tiger population in the reserve and improve the genetic diversity of the population.