World Tiger Day calls for conservation of the big cats

As the world unites to address the global tiger crisis, the delayed census in Bangladesh highlights the complex challenges faced by conservationists on the ground. With perseverance and dedication, it is hoped that the upcoming census results will provide the necessary data to inform effective conservation actions and contribute to the global effort to save tigers from extinction.

World Tiger Day serves as a crucial platform to galvanise global attention on the plight of these magnificent creatures.

While celebrated with renewed vigor this year, the conservation efforts in Bangladesh have faced significant setbacks. The postponement of the Sundarbans tiger census, a critical component of understanding and protecting the population, underscores the challenges faced by wildlife conservationists in the country.

Originally slated for release on World Tiger Day, the census results have been delayed due to the disruptions caused by widespread protests and subsequent curfews. This unforeseen obstacle has hindered the ability of experts to assess the tiger population's health and implement targeted conservation strategies.

According to the Forest Department, the census was conducted using camera trapping methods under the Sundarbans Tiger Conservation Project. This census was carried out from January to April of last year in Satkhira and Khulna ranges.

Tiger Conservation Project officials said that some 7,500 photographs of tigers, including photo of same tiger multiple times, were obtained. Therefore, a 'unique ID' was created for each tiger through scientific method. These photographs have been provided to experts for analysis.

Employing advanced camera trapping techniques, wildlife officials have amassed a substantial dataset of tiger photographs. These images are being meticulously analyzed to identify individual tigers, track their movements, and gain valuable insights into their behavior. While preliminary findings suggest a potential increase in the tiger population compared to the 2018 census, definitive conclusions await the completion of the comprehensive analysis.

Using the camera trapping method in 2018, the forest department found the presence of the 114 tigers in the Sundarbans.

The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a vital ecosystem for the survival of Bengal tigers. Protecting this fragile habitat is paramount to ensuring the long-term viability of the species. By investing in robust conservation measures, including anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and community engagement, Bangladesh can play a pivotal role in safeguarding the future of tigers.