The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha has launched its annual tiger census, beginning a detailed multi-stage enumeration exercise in line with guidelines issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). The survey aims to update data on both predator and prey populations across Similipal’s core and buffer zones.
Two-Phase Census Kicks Off
Forest officials confirmed that the census will be carried out in two major phases, combining traditional field surveys with mobile-based data collection and a vast grid of camera traps across the sanctuary.
The first phase focuses on identifying tiger movement zones in southern Similipal. Teams are documenting indirect evidence such as pugmarks, scrape marks, scats, and other wildlife signs. To standardize the survey, forest personnel are laying transect lines across designated areas.
A total of 103 trained forest staff have been mobilized across 103 beat locations, all situated in known tiger corridors. Each team has been instructed to record field data through a mobile application connected to the NTCA’s central database.
Herbivore Count First
Deputy Director (South Similipal) Samrat Gouda said the initial phase will help estimate herbivore density, which is essential for understanding prey availability.
“A transect survey will be done first. Under it, herbivores such as deer and sambhar will be counted. The data will be collected via a mobile app and sent to the NTCA for analysis,” Gouda explained.
Carnivore Census to Start December 1
The second phase, starting December 1, will focus on carnivores including tigers, leopards, and smaller wild cats. This stage will rely primarily on camera-trap evidence, which provides accurate and non-intrusive population estimates.
Around 1,500 camera traps will be deployed across various forest zones to capture tiger movement patterns, territorial behavior, and unique identification marks. The grid-based setup will remain active for several weeks to ensure complete coverage of the landscape.
Gouda added:
“Once the herbivore survey results come in, we will begin the carnivore count. Tigers, leopards, and small cat species will be documented thereafter.”
Preparations Completed
Forest officials said all preparations — including team briefings, route planning, and equipment distribution — were completed earlier this week. The census is part of the all-India tiger estimation cycle, conducted every four years to track changes in tiger populations and habitat health.
The latest exercise is expected to provide valuable insights into Similipal’s predator-prey dynamics, strengthening future conservation strategies in one of India’s most biodiverse landscapes.
