Legacy of Badi Maa’s lineage a testament of success of tiger conservation efforts

 

 

The legacy of legendary tigress ‘Badi Maa,’ matriarch of Pench Tiger Reserve, continues to shape tiger conservation efforts with another successful reintroduction project at the newly designated Veerangana Durgawati Tiger Reserve in Nauradehi. Badi Maa’s lineage has played a pivotal role in transforming the landscape of tiger conservation in India. Among her many cubs- two Collarwali and Baghin Nullah-emerged as significant contributors to expansion of the big cat population in the region. The Tiger Reintroduction Project in Nauradehi began in April 2018 with translocation of a tigress from Pench. Recently, another tigress, Mastani, was relocated to Nauradehi after being rescued from a well in Pench. Thanks to these efforts, tiger population in Nauradehi has now grown to an estimated 20–22 individuals. Speaking to ‘The Hitavada,’ Pench Tiger Reserve Deputy Director Rajneesh Singh shared insights into the remarkable story of Badi Maa’s descendants. Collarwali and Baghin Nullah, born in October 2005 as part of Badi Maa’s second litter, proved to be exceptional matriarchs themselves.

 

Their efforts in raising and nurturing cubs ensured the continued survival and growth of the tiger population in Pench. He added that Collarwali gave birth to her first litter in May 2008 near Kalapahad area, but disappointingly, the cubs did not survive. She gave birth to a second litter in October 2008, comprising three male and one female, marking beginning of an extraordinary legacy. Over the years, Collarwali gave birth to 26 cubs, successfully raising at least 22 to adulthood, an unparalleled achievement in the wild. Baghin Nullah, Collarwali’s sister, also played a crucial role in expanding the tiger population. Together, they successfully raised nearly 35 cubs to adulthood, ensuring the genetic diversity and sustainability of Pench’s tigers. However, tragedy struck in February 2016 when Baghin Nullah and two of her cubs were poisoned.

 

A lone surviving cub was sent to Ghorela Rewilding Centre in Kanha, where she matured into a formidable tigress by 2018. Initially considered for translocation to Odisha’s Satkosia Reserve, the plan was ultimately cancelled by local authorities. Instead, she was relocated to Nauradehi, where she became a part of another conservation success story. The lasting impact of Badi Maa’s lineage is a testament to success of India’s tiger conservation efforts. With projects like the one in Nauradehi, future of these majestic big cats remains bright, ensuring their survival for generations to come.