Early warnings, AI surveillance enough to protect tigers in Karnataka?

Karnataka, once hailed as a success story in tiger conservation, is facing a worrying setback. Between April 2020 and August 2025, the state recorded the loss of 75 tigers across its reserves. While 62 deaths were natural, the remaining 13 were linked to human-induced threats, a stark reminder of the fragile balance between people and wildlife.

Reserves at the Epicenter

Two of Karnataka’s most iconic reserves, Nagarahole (26 deaths) and Bandipur (22 deaths), account for nearly two-thirds of the state’s losses. Other protected areas like Biligiri Ranganatha Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve reported eight deaths, while Male Mahadeshwara (MM) Hills recorded five.

Human-Induced Threats

The unnatural deaths included six poisoning cases, five of which occurred in MM Hills earlier this year when villagers allegedly targeted predators after livestock loss. Two tigers were caught in illegal snares, another was electrocuted, one was shot dead, and two more were poached through unspecified methods. A tragic case of roadkill was also reported in Mysuru, underscoring the dangers posed by highways cutting through forest corridors.

Conservation Efforts in Motion

In response, the forest department is stepping up its strategy. A real-time monitoring system called ‘Hejje’ now tracks radio-collared tigers, while AI-powered camera traps and drones strengthen surveillance. Efforts to revive grasslands by removing invasive weeds like lantana are also underway to boost prey availability.

Additionally, early warning systems are being piloted in fringe villages, sending alerts about tiger movement through mobile messages or loudspeakers, a step toward preventing panic and reducing conflict.