Sun Feb 22 10:49:26 UTC 2026: ### Tigress Rewilding Progresses in Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve
The Story:
A tigress named MT-7, rescued as a cub from Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, has taken a significant step in its rewilding journey at the Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve in Kota, Rajasthan. The tigress was tranquilized on Saturday, February 21, 2026, fitted with a radio collar, and moved from a 5-hectare enclosure to a larger 21-hectare enclosure. This move is part of a phased rewilding plan approved by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) after assessing the tigress’s hunting skills and adaptability.
The tigress, after being rescued, spent 22 months at Abheda Biological Park, where she was exposed to live prey to develop her hunting instincts. She then spent approximately 14 months in the smaller rewilding enclosure, demonstrating successful hunting and natural behaviors. The final decision on her release into the natural forest area rests with the Chief Wildlife Warden.
Key Points:
* Tigress MT-7 was moved from a 5-hectare to a 21-hectare enclosure in Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve on February 21, 2026.
* The tigress was rescued as a cub from Ranthambore Tiger Reserve after her mother’s death.
* She spent 22 months at Abheda Biological Park, developing hunting skills.
* A team from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) approved the phased rewilding plan.
* The tigress’s movements are being continuously monitored via a radio collar.
Key Takeaways:
* The relocation of MT-7 represents a crucial stage in her rewilding process.
* The success of this program hinges on the tigress’s continued adaptation and hunting performance.
* Rewilding programs are essential for tiger conservation efforts in India, particularly for orphaned or displaced cubs.
* Collaboration between wildlife authorities, veterinarians, and biologists is critical for successful rewilding operations.
* Monitoring and evaluation are paramount to ensuring the long-term success of rewilded tigers.
First Piper 