Rare Black Tigers Thrive in Odisha's Simlipal National Park - ఒడిశాలోని సిమ్లిపాల్ నేషనల్ పార్క్‌లో అరుదైన నల్ల పులులు

Discover the elusive black tigers, a unique variant of the Royal Bengal tiger, thriving in Odisha's Simlipal National Park. These pseudo-melanistic tigers, characterized by larger and darker stripes due to a genetic mutation called melanism, account for over a third of the tiger population in the park. While not a separate subspecies, these black tigers showcase a rare and captivating coloration.

In Simlipal, around 37% of tigers exhibit this pseudo-melanistic condition. The earliest documented evidence dates back to 1993, with reports emerging after a local boy encountered and defended himself against a black tigress. However, official records of these majestic creatures were only established 14 years later.

Despite the national tiger population steadily increasing to 3,167 in 2023, the report reveals a decline in Odisha, with approximately 20 tigers remaining. Conservation efforts face challenges, emphasizing the need for enhanced measures to safeguard these unique big cats in the state.