Foresters translocate 10 chitals from TATR to NNTR to increase prey-base

 

 

 

 

To increase prey-base for tigers in Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve (NNTR), the Forest Department has started translocating herds of chitals (Spotted Deer) from Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) to NNTR, on Friday. A herd of 10 chitals was safely shifted to NNTR. In Tadoba, chital were safely captured and held in an African-style ‘Boma’ structure. These ‘Boma’ structures have been constructed by the

 

TATR management in the Jamni meadow of Kolara Range. With its vast meadows and high chital population, Jamni was the most suitable location for erecting the ‘Boma’. Preparations for this initiative were on for the past four months. From the ‘Boma’, the animals were transported in specially-designed translocation vehicles.

 

The vehicles are equipped with CCTV cameras, foggers, and cushioning to prevent injuries, and are designed to allow segregation of animals by gender during movement. For the purpose of this initiative, two such vehicles were specially purchased and modified by the department. The animals were successfully transported to the soft-release enclosures of the Navegaon–Nagzira Tiger Reserve.

 

The translocation was made possible due to meticulous planning by the team led by Anand Reddy, Deputy Director, Core Division of TATR, supported by ACF Vivek Natu. Important contributions also were made by ACF Aniruddha Dhage, RFO Bhavik Chivande and RFO Vishal Vaidya.

 

The TATR team was assisted by an expert team from Madhya Pradesh (MP) consisting of RFO Dr Balwant Keshwal, Dy RO Chowdhary, Dy. RO Uike and Round Officer Bhais, who were specially invited to provide expert guidance. Reddy informed that the most significant success of this operation was achieving translocation without any mortality. Additionally, a team led by RFO Tejas Suryavanshi from NNTR provided crucial support during the operation and transportation, including piloting duties. “This translocation has further enhanced the experience of the TATR team in translocating herbivores as well. Successfully completing this operation after the translocation of tigers to NNTR, Simlipal and Sahyadri Tiger Reserve