An adult male Royal Bengal Tiger was found dead in Kaziranga National Park, marking the fifth tiger death this year. Discovered by staff from the Lahorijan Anti-Poaching Camp during routine patrols, the carcass was in an advanced stage of decomposition. However, remains including bones, skin, nails, and teeth were intact, showing no immediate evidence of poaching. A post-mortem examination indicated that the death was likely due to natural causes, possibly from old age, according to Sonali Ghosh, the park’s Director. Samples for forensic analysis were collected, and the carcass was disposed of by burning as per protocol.
Kaziranga, home to a healthy tiger population with 27 recorded in the 6th Addition area, has seen a concerning series of deaths in recent months. Notable incidents include the deaths of tigers in various locations within the park, with the first recorded fatality on January 4. Despite claims of natural causes, the frequency of these incidents raises concerns among wildlife observers and local communities about the well-being of Kaziranga’s iconic tiger population, integral to the park’s ecological balance and conservation efforts.