Tiger population in Bhutan has increased by a quarter since 2015 from 103 to 131, based on a comprehensive survey completed recently and figures released on Saturday, July 29 for International Tiger Day revealed.
Most of the sightings were reported from the Royal Manas National Park, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park (JSWNP), Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, Jigme Dorji National Park, Bumthang, Dagana and Zhemgang Divisions with tiger density of more than two individuals per 100 km2.
A total of 184 camera stations— covering 26,075km sq—also showed four out of five tigresses captured in the camera traps with cubs above 2,500m above sea level.
“This is a significant achievement and an indication of a very healthy ecosystem. It also underlines Bhutan’s commitment to biodiversity conservation. WWF commits to continue working with the Government and partners towards holistic conservation efforts benefiting both people and wildlife,” stresses Chimi Rinzin, country director of WWF-Bhutan.
Tigers are on the brink of extinction across Asia where only a century ago they reigned supreme as top predators. Then they numbered 100,000; now they are down to 5,000 or so. Their ranges, too, have diminished drastically over the decades, leaving them little room free from human interference.
The success story of Bhutan points the way forward in the conservation of tigers for other nations whose wild tiger populations have yet to rebound.