Census data sent to Wildlife Institute of India to ascertain number of tigers

PANJIM: In order to avoid any dilemma on the number of tigers, captured in the camera traps laid during the Tiger Census 2022, the State Forest Department has sent data to Wildlife Institute of India (WII) for authentication. 

The camera traps has recorded tiger pictures at six different locations in the protected areas of Mhadei and Mollem. The Census was undertaken during April-May. 

However, to ensure that there are no glitches or duplication in the estimation and to ascertain whether the animal is transit, the State Forest Department has taken the step towards data authentication. 

Almost 100 camera traps were placed in different parts including wild-life sanctuaries and national park. “During this period, cameras recorded presence of tigers at six locations in Mhadei and Mollem areas,” sources said. 

“We cannot ascertain the numbers as we need to get it confirmed from WII, whether same tiger is captured twice or these are two or three different tigers. We sent the data to WII for authentication. WII will also help us to know whether these are transit animals or resident of Goa,” said sources. 

“We don’t want any glitches or duplication in the tiger estimation. Once WII clarifies, we will be in position to declare the total tiger count in the State,” said sources.

The Mhadei and Mollem are contiguous to the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary and Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve. 

Camera traps are outdoor photographic devices fitted with motion sensors that start recording when an animal passes by. 

As per the government record placed before the State Legislative Assembly, on 25 occasions tigers have been spotted in Mhadei and Mollem from January to May. The presence of tigers in the State’s wild is confirmed with big cat photos being captured through camera traps and videos.  “Apart from census data, we have sent all other pictures captured of tigers, over the months, to WII,” the source said. 

The tigers were spotted in the areas of Surla, Caranzol, Collem, Mollem and Bhoma. 

Last year too, camera traps had recorded movement of tigers in six locations of Mhadei wildlife range.