In an exciting development, the government of Odisha has announced its plans to unveil a unique “melanistic tiger safari” near the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district. Government shared the news on his official social media handle, revealing that the safari would offer tourists a rare glimpse of the majestic melanistic tigers that inhabit the Similipal region.
Distinctive Black Tigers of Similipal
Similipal Tiger Reserve is renowned as the sole habitat for the so-called “black tigers,” characterized by thick black stripes closely arranged on a predominantly brown background. It’s essential to note that these melanistic tigers are not a distinct species or sub-species but a unique variation found in this specific area of the world.
A First-of-its-Kind Safari
The proposed melanistic tiger safari is set to be a groundbreaking initiative, being the first of its kind globally. Spanning a 200-hectare tract near Baripada in the district of Mayurbhanj, the safari will allocate around 100 hectares for the display area. The remaining space will be dedicated to vital facilities such as veterinary care, rescue centers, staff infrastructure, and visitor amenities.
Proximity to Similipal Tiger Reserve
The chosen site, located approximately 15 kilometers from the Similipal Tiger Reserve, ensures that the safari maintains the same natural landscape as the reserve. The decision aligns with the findings of the 2018 All India Tiger Estimation Report from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), which confirms Similipal as the only place where melanistic tigers are found in the wild.
Housing Surplus and Rescued Tigers
The melanistic tiger safari aims to house surplus tigers from Nandankanan Zoo and rescued or orphaned tigers deemed unfit for the wild but suitable for public display. These tigers will inhabit open enclosures within the safari, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures up close.
State’s Commitment to Biodiversity Preservation
The state forest and environment department emphasized that this initiative underscores Odisha’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its unique biodiversity. The proposal has already received “in-principle” approval from the technical committee of the National Tiger Conservation Authority, marking a significant step toward the realization of this pioneering project.
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