Kuno National Park Encounter: Rajasthan's Tiger Roams In, No Risk to Cheetahs

In Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park, a tiger from Rajasthan entered, raising no concerns for the introduced African cheetahs, securely kept within the park. Officials note the tiger's natural arrival, stressing the coexistence of diverse big cats and ongoing conservation efforts, highlighting the park's biodiversity.

Image Source -www.thehindu.com

A sub-adult tiger from Rajasthan ventured into Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park (KNP), home to introduced African cheetahs, but officials assured no threat to the cheetahs’ safety. The tiger’s arrival, tracked by its paw marks, didn't raise concerns for the cheetahs, securely kept in enclosures within the park.

Reportedly, the tiger, approximately three years old, migrated from Rajasthan’s Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, nearly 100 km away from KNP.

Presently, Kuno National Park accommodates seven male and seven female cheetahs along with a cub. Officials highlighted the cautious nature of leopards towards tigers, emphasizing the park's high leopard density.

Comparatively, male tigers weigh around 200 kg, while male cheetahs average between 55 and 60 kg, showcasing a significant size difference.

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The park initiated a cheetah reintroduction project, releasing eight Namibian cheetahs last year, followed by an additional 12 from South Africa earlier this year. Four cubs were born in the park, increasing the feline count to 24.

Despite successful introductions, the park faced setbacks, losing nine cheetahs, including three cubs, since March. Currently, 14 cheetahs and one cub remain in good health, while the species was declared extinct in India in 1952.

While the tiger's entry into the park marks a natural event, park officials ensure strict vigilance to prevent any potential harm to the cheetahs. The coexistence of these distinct big cats in Kuno National Park reflects the ongoing efforts to preserve diverse wildlife populations in the region.

The tiger's natural migration into the park remains a testament to the biodiversity of these ecosystems, showcasing the challenges and nuances of managing diverse species within conservation projects.