Tigress Zinnat, on the run since December 10th from Similipal, was captured in Bankura's Ranibandh forest using a baited strategy.
Bankura, West Bengal : Tigress Zinnat, whose elusive movements had kept forest officials across multiple states on high alert, was finally tranquilized and captured in the Ranibandh forest of West Bengal's Bankura district. This marks the end of a 19-day chase that began in Odisha’s Similipal National Park and spanned into Jharkhand before concluding in West Bengal.
The tigress, originally translocated from Maharashtra's Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve to Similipal, escaped from the core zone of Similipal National Park on December 10. Following her escape, Zinnat journeyed into Jharkhand, traversing through areas like Chakulia in the Jamshedpur range, before moving westward to the border region of Odisha and West Bengal.
The Capture Strategy
Forest officials deployed a strategic plan involving bait to lure Zinnat. Two goats were used as bait in the Ranibandh forest. Drawn by the prey, Zinnat moved out of the dense jungle, giving forest officials the opportunity to tranquilize her. A specially trained team of 120 forest personnel was engaged in the operation, which had been meticulously planned to ensure the tigress’s safety.
From Tadoba to Similipal
Zinnat was initially brought to Similipal from Maharashtra as part of a tiger rewilding program. After a period in an enclosure, she was released into the core area of the park. However, her escape raised concerns about her behavior and adaptability to the wild, prompting this high-stakes operation.
The Timeline
- December 10th : Zinnat escaped from Similipal National Park.
- December 15th : Spotted in Chakulia, Jharkhand.
- December 19th : Sighted near the Odisha-West Bengal border in Jhargram.
- December 29th : Tranquilized in Bankura's Ranibandh forest.
What Lies Ahead
The captured tigress will now be transported back to Similipal under strict supervision. Forest officials are reviewing her behavior and planning appropriate measures for her reintegration into the sanctuary.
Expert Insights
Wildlife experts emphasized the challenges of tracking and capturing a tigress that had traversed varied terrains. “Such operations require precision and coordination to ensure minimal stress on the animal,” said a senior wildlife officer.
This incident highlights both the success of inter-state collaboration and the ongoing challenges of wildlife management in India’s protected areas. Forest authorities are now focusing on ensuring Zinnat’s safe return and adapting strategies for similar future events.
No comments:
Post a Comment