Tiger cub rescued near Ooty

A tiger cub separated from its mother was rescued by Forest Department officials near Ooty, while efforts are under way to trace another missing cub.
The Nilgiris region, including the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Masinagudi, Gudalur forest areas and Mukkuruthi National Park, remains a key habitat for tigers. Due to sustained conservation measures, the tiger population in the district has increased significantly in recent years, rising from 34 in 2018 to 63 in 2024.
However, officials note that threats such as habitat conflict and poaching continue to pose risks. In 2023 alone, 10 tigers, including six cubs, died in various incidents across the region, prompting intensified protection measures.
The latest incident was reported from Solada village on the border of the Muttinadu Reserve Forest under the Ooty North Forest Range. Villagers spotted two tiger cubs wandering in the area and alerted the Forest Department.
A team led by Sarkar Ramprakash rushed to the spot and conducted surveillance, during which one cub, estimated to be four to five months old, was located and safely captured using a cage.
The female cub is currently under veterinary care and close monitoring.
Forest officials are continuing their search to locate the second cub and ascertain the whereabouts of the mother tiger.
Authorities said the rescued cub will be rehabilitated and released back into the forest following due procedures and approval from higher officials.