40 Royal Bengal Tigers now in Similipal; Odisha sets target for 100 tigers in 10 years

A day after the Odisha government declared Similipal a national park under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, there is more good news for the wildlife lovers and conservationists.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Prem Kumar Jha on Friday shared encouraging data that reflects the success of tiger conservation efforts in the region. As per the latest findings from camera trap surveys conducted this year, there are currently 40 Royal Bengal tigers in Similipal, including six cubs.

This increase comes following the successful breeding of well-known tigresses Zeenat and Yamuna, whose lineage has contributed notably to the park’s tiger population. 

Apart from Zinat and Yamuna, the forest department has identified 13 adult male tigers and 17 tigresses, while the gender of two other adult tigers is yet to be confirmed.

18 Melanistic Royal Bengal Tigers In Similipal

A particularly noteworthy aspect of this year’s report is the presence of 18 black tigers, or melanistic Royal Bengal Tigers, which are a rare genetic variant found only in Similipal. This includes 9 male and 9 female black tigers. The presence of these unique species not only adds to the park’s biodiversity but also enhances its global ecological significance.

According to the PCCF, the forest department has set a target to increase the tiger population to 100 within the next 10 years through focused conservation programs, habitat improvement, and stringent anti-poaching measures. 

This ambitious goal reflects Odisha’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and protecting one of the most endangered big cat species in the world.

The figures come on the heels of the 2024 State Tiger Census, Odisha’s first dedicated tiger population assessment, which had reported 27 adult tigers and 8 cubs in Similipal. The fresh numbers clearly indicate a positive trend in population growth and successful breeding cycles.

Officials credit this success to sustained surveillance, the use of advanced monitoring technologies like camera traps, improved habitat management, and the efforts of dedicated field staff. Similipal is now not only home to a thriving population of Royal Bengal tigers but also holds a unique position on the world map as the only known natural habitat of black tigers.

With conservation momentum picking up, Similipal is steadily emerging as a model for tiger protection in India, and a symbol of Odisha’s wildlife richness.