Kaziranga, 07 February (HS): An adult male tiger was found dead in the Burhapahar range of Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve on Saturday, prompting forest authorities to initiate an investigation into the incident.

Officials said the carcass of the big cat, estimated to be around 10 to 15 years old, was discovered in a Brahmaputra river channel near the Baneshwar Forest Camp during routine patrolling by forest staff.

After the recovery, senior forest department officials and a veterinary doctor reached the spot to assess the situation. A post-mortem examination was carried out at the site to determine the cause of death.

Preliminary findings suggest that the tiger may have died following a territorial clash with another tiger, a phenomenon often observed among ageing male tigers as they compete for dominance.

Forest authorities noted that the exact cause of death will be confirmed after detailed post-mortem reports and further inquiry. The incident has once again drawn attention to the high tiger density and intense territorial competition within Kaziranga, one of India’s most significant tiger habitats.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash