Tiger Translocation for Genetic Diversity:
The Odisha government translocated a tigress named Jamuna from Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra to the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha.
- Translocation was aimed at enhancing genetic diversity in Similipal, where there are concerns about inbreeding due to a small population.
- In 2018, a tigress named Sundari was relocated to Satkosia Tiger Reserve, Odisha.
- The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) gives approval for the translocation project.
- The Odisha Tiger Estimation conducted in 2024 found a total 24 adult tigers in Similipal, with a notable presence of pseudo-melanistic tigers.
- STR is the only habitat where these black tigers are found in the wild.
- The high number of pseudo-melanistic tigers (13 out of 24 adults) in Similipal raises concerns about inbreeding and lack of genetic flow, prompting the need for external genetic input.
- Plans are in place to establish a melanistic tiger safari in Similipal, which would be the first of its kind in the world.
- Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is situated in Maharashtra and is the oldest and largest national park in the state.
