The majestic presence of big cats in Odisha’s forests is creating two contrasting pictures across the state. While tiger sightings have thrilled tourists at Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, leopard attacks and suspected tiger movements have triggered fear among villagers in several areas.
At Debrigarh, tourists were treated to a rare wildlife spectacle as a Royal Bengal Tiger was spotted roaming freely in the safari zone. The big cat was also seen displaying its hunting instincts by killing a sambar deer. However, in Nuapada and other districts, the presence of big cats near human settlements has raised concerns over human-wildlife conflict.
Tiger Sighting and Successful Hunt at Debrigarh
On Monday afternoon, tourists visiting Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary were delighted to spot a Royal Bengal Tiger moving freely through the forest. Around 40 tourists travelling in four safari vehicles got the opportunity to witness the rare sighting and capture the animal on camera.
The excitement continued in the evening when the tiger reportedly hunted a sambar deer in the core area of the sanctuary, offering another glimpse of its natural hunting behaviour.
Meanwhile, the Forest Department has intensified security measures to protect the tiger and prevent illegal activities. Patrolling has been strengthened along the western boundary of the sanctuary, adjoining the Hirakud reservoir.
Forest officials are keeping a close watch on suspected poachers, traps and other suspicious activities. The department has also announced a reward of Rs 1,000 for anyone providing information about suspicious activities. The identity of informants will be kept confidential.
Leopard Enters House, Carries Away Dog in Nuapada
While the tiger sighting at Debrigarh brought excitement among tourists, the situation is quite different in Nuapada district, where villagers are living in fear following a leopard attack.
In Bhaisadara village under the Amanara section, a leopard reportedly entered the house of Chaman Lal Mirdha and carried away his pet dog.
The incident has created panic among residents, who are concerned about the possible movement of the big cat near human settlements.
Panic Near Similipal, Tiger Sightings Reported in Koraput
Concerns have also emerged from the foothills of Similipal in Mayurbhanj district. In Tilabadi village, the Forest Department suspects that a tiger may have killed four goats, raising fears among local residents.
Meanwhile, reports of a Royal Bengal Tiger roaming around Marichamal village and nearby forest areas in Koraput district have sparked discussion.
Some photographs claiming to show a tiger in the area have gone viral on social media. The Forest Department is currently verifying the authenticity of these photographs and investigating the reported movement of the big cat.
Human-Wildlife Conflict Raises Concerns
The contrasting incidents across Odisha once again highlight the growing challenge of human-wildlife conflict.
Forests are the natural habitats of wild animals, and predators such as tigers play an important role in maintaining ecological balance. However, when the boundaries between forests and human settlements become increasingly blurred, encounters between humans and wildlife become more frequent.
While protecting tigers and other endangered animals remains a priority, ensuring the safety and livelihoods of people living near forest areas is equally important.
The bigger question now is whether Odisha can ensure the safety of its majestic big cats in their natural habitats while protecting villagers from increasing human-wildlife encounters.