Steady Growth of Bengal Tiger Population in Bangladesh
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
Recent reports indicate that Bangladesh’s Bengal tiger population has steadily increased over the past nine years, largely due to effective government conservation initiatives. The latest census reveals that the Sundarbans, the country’s remaining tiger habitat, is home to at least 125 adult tigers, marking a significant growth compared to previous years.
The census conducted between January 2 and April 25, 2023, and November 1, 2023, to March 28, 2024, employed modern techniques, including camera traps, to evaluate the big cat population. Project Director Abu Naser Mohsin Hossain noted that they examined a vast area of 2,240 square kilometers, utilizing 1,210 cameras to capture images. The analysis identified 84 adult tigers and calculated a density of 2.64 tigers per 100 km², an increase of 17.92% from 2015’s survey.
This rise in population is attributed to various conservation measures, including enhanced patrolling against poaching and the installation of net fences. The healthy ecosystem in the Sundarbans is further evidenced by an uptick in prey populations, such as spotted deer, which are vital for sustaining the tiger population. While the overall trend is positive, challenges remain, particularly in selected regions where poaching and illegal activities threaten tiger numbers.
In conclusion, Bangladesh’s steady growth of the Bengal tiger population highlights the importance of robust conservation practices. Continued monitoring and community education efforts are essential to ensure the safety and sustainability of these magnificent big cats in their natural habitat.
