Thursday, January 18, 2018

Tiger Cannibalism - Budbudi Queen Lost

Loud roars were heard during the morning safari at Karai Ghati road. But no tiger was seen and the commotion was made out to be a kill by a tiger possibly a Dhamangaon male who frequents the area. 

Whence we heard about the incident we explored the area nearly an hour later. The jungle had fallen silent and there was no sign of any life forget the big cat. 

During the evening safari, I advised guests staying at Courtyard House Kanha where I freelance as a naturalist and host to inspect the spot. They sighted what was actually Sangam male a visitor to Karai Ghatti.  

Sangam Male
Pranav Ade & Pratik Mudholkar are wildlife enthusiasts and keen photographers who have taken some excellent photographs of the killer male. The partially eaten carcass was later dragged towards the road and it was discovered to be that of another tiger. On inspection by the forest department, it was found to be that of Budbudi female the star of Kisli Range and Queen of Kanha. 

Much is conjectured about the incident but it is assumed that the male killed her as she was not willing to mate. Or it could be that he was after her cubs? In defense of the cubs, she gave up her life. But it is not certain that she had cubs albeit a search is going on. 

Often seen at Kisli Talao and Budbudi fire line she was very popular with guides, naturalists, and regular visitors to Kanha National Park. 

Another tiger lost, a sad story but what is more saddening is the fate of the cubs? Search will reveal the true status of the female and I hope soon.        



   Image Courtesy Pranav Ade