Tue Feb 24 17:39:35 UTC 2026: # Periyar Tiger Reserve Launches Phase III of All India Tiger Estimation 2025-26
The Story:
Periyar Tiger Reserve has commenced Phase III of the All India Tiger Estimation 2025-26 on February 25, 2026. This crucial phase of the national tiger census aims to accurately assess the tiger population within the reserve and contribute to the nationwide assessment. The reserve has been systematically divided into two square kilometer grids, with two camera traps strategically placed in each grid to capture images of tigers and accurately identify individual animals through their unique stripe patterns.
Key Points:
- Phase III of the All India Tiger Estimation 2025-26 has been initiated at Periyar Tiger Reserve.
- The monitoring phase launched on February 25, 2026.
- Tiger habitats are divided into two square kilometer grids for uniform coverage.
- Each grid contains two camera traps to capture images of both flanks of passing tigers.
- The camera traps are used to identify individual tigers via their unique stripe patterns.
Critical Analysis:
The commencement of Phase III in Periyar Tiger Reserve aligns with the broader national effort to accurately estimate the tiger population. The strategic placement of camera traps in a grid system reflects a commitment to scientific rigor and data accuracy. This systematic approach is essential for monitoring tiger populations, understanding their distribution, and informing conservation strategies. The mention of herders being fined for grazing sheep in the Kawal Tiger Reserve suggests potential human-wildlife conflict, underscoring the importance of monitoring and management efforts.
Key Takeaways:
- The All India Tiger Estimation is a critical national initiative for tiger conservation.
- Systematic monitoring using camera traps is essential for accurate tiger population assessment.
- The grid-based approach ensures comprehensive spatial coverage.
- Data from the estimation will inform conservation strategies and management decisions.
- Human-wildlife conflict remains a challenge in tiger reserves, highlighting the need for effective management strategies.
Impact Analysis:
The All India Tiger Estimation has long-term implications for tiger conservation. Accurate population data is essential for informing conservation strategies, allocating resources, and monitoring the effectiveness of management interventions. The information gathered will likely influence policy decisions related to habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement. The success of this estimation will contribute to the long-term survival of tiger populations in India.
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