Baripada: To enhance genetic diversity in Similipal Tiger Reserve, the Forest Department released tigress Zeenat into the core forest area on Sunday night. Brought from Maharashtra as part of an interstate translocation program, Zeenat’s release marks a milestone in conservation efforts at the reserve, which is home to 28 tigers, including 15 rare pseudo-melanistic individuals.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, Susant Nanda, confirmed that the tigress was transported to the North Division Core Area of Similipal at 9:30 PM. Speaking about the development, Nanda stated that Zeenat’s presence is expected to infuse much-needed genetic diversity into the tiger population of Similipal. Her movements will now be closely monitored by the Forest Department round the clock.
Zeenat’s journey to Similipal began in the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) of Maharashtra, where she was tranquilized on November 13. After completing the necessary legal formalities, a special team from Similipal facilitated her transport in a specially designed vehicle, covering a route that included Raipur, Sambalpur, and Yashipur before reaching Baripada.
The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen tiger populations in Similipal, which holds a unique position as a biodiversity hotspot with its pseudo-melanistic tigers. The Forest Department and conservationists hope that introducing Zeenat will contribute to the reserve’s ecological balance and long-term genetic health.