Mandla, October 3 (Udaipur Kiran News): A tragic incident has been reported from Kanha Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh’s Mandla district, where one adult male tiger and two female cubs were found dead in separate locations within the core area just two days after jungle safaris resumed for tourists.
According to forest officials, the deaths appear to be the result of intra-species conflict (fighting among tigers). The carcass of the 10-year-old male tiger was found in Mawala area of Mukki range, while the bodies of the two female cubs, aged around two months, were recovered from Mundidadar beat in the Kanha range.
Officials suspect that the cubs were attacked by a newly arrived male tiger in the territory. Deep wounds were found on their necks and heads, consistent with territorial conflict injuries. The adult tiger’s neck bones were fractured, confirming death due to fighting with another male.
Following the incident, the Kanha management informed the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and conducted post-mortem examinations. All carcasses were subsequently cremated to prevent any health risks to other wildlife.
Kanha Tiger Reserve Director Sanjay Shukla said preliminary findings indicate intra-species conflict as the cause. “With over 100 tigers in the reserve, territorial disputes are not uncommon,” he stated, adding that forensic reports will provide confirmation.
A dog squad was deployed for investigation but found no suspicious signs of human interference. Wildlife expert Dr. Himanshu Kaushik remarked that while the rising tiger population is a positive sign, it also increases the chances of territorial clashes. He termed the death of the cubs as “particularly distressing,” noting they represented the future generation.
Spread across 940 sq. km, Kanha Tiger Reserve is one of India’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries, home to a thriving population of barasinghas (swamp deer) and tigers. The incident has raised concerns among forest officials and conservationists, who are now awaiting the forensic report for a final conclusion.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.