Dr. Ullas Karanth on the 2011 government tiger numbers
RESPONSE TO THE NATIONAL TIGER ESTIMATION REPORT
The result of the national tiger estimation exercise conducted over the past couple of years has been released on 28-3-2011. It reports an increase in adult tiger numbers to 1636 (1706 including Sunderbans), up from the previous estimate of 1411 tigers in 2007. This is an increase of 16% compounded over 4 years, suggesting that the previous decline of tigers has been reversed. However, since full details are not yet available as to how these tiger numbers have been arrived at, it is not possible to give an expert opinion about the new numbers. However, since various threats faced by tigers do not appear to have diminished in last four years, it is difficult to explain the claimed reversal of the decline of tigers. Read more
An in depth interview with
Dr. K. Ullas Karanth
Senior Scientist, Wildlife Conservation Society and Director, Centre for Wildlife Studies, Bangalore
One of the most respected tiger biologists in the world, Dr. Ullas Karanth combines extensive field experience with cutting edge science. In the early 90s he pioneered the use of radio telemetry to study tigers in India’s forests by attaching radio-collars to track their movements. Subsequently, he devised an ingenious method of estimating tiger numbers through a technique known as camera trapping, which involves deploying a large number of automatic cameras in tiger habitats and identifying tigers based on their unique stripe patterns. The author of several popular books, a technical manual, popular articles and a large number of scientific publications in reputed international journals, Dr. Karanth is a visionary whose feet are firmly planted in the real world. His deep insights and well-considered solutions can be read here.
An interview with
Praveen Bhargav
Managing Trustee, Wildlife First
In an exclusive interview, Praveen Bhargav, Managing Trustee of Wildlife First, a proactive, Bangalore based conservation NGO, talks to Shekar Dattatri about poaching and its prevention. Bhargav is a seasoned conservationist with over 20 years of field experience and a special interest in enforcement issues and wildlife law. Along with K.M. Chinnappa, a former Range Warden who now heads Wildlife First, he has conducted more than 30 field training programmes for forest and police personnel in several states. Read more..
