Experts Cite Food Shortage, Habitat Loss, and Human Activity as Primary Causes, South 24 Parganas
Experts attribute the tigers’ unusual behavior to several environmental factors, with food scarcity being the most pressing. During the winter months, the primary prey of the tigers—such as deer and wild boars—migrate deeper into the forest in search of food. As a result, the tigers, driven by hunger, are forced to venture into the nearby villages where domesticated animals like cows, goats, and dogs present easy targets. The phenomenon of tigers entering localities in search of food has been noted particularly in areas like Gaur’s Chowk in Kultali and Ganga’s Ghat in Mohanpur.
In addition to food shortages, another factor contributing to these movements is the lack of shelter. As temperatures drop, tigers often seek refuge in dense foliage or abandoned structures to escape the cold. These shelters, often found near human settlements, also provide them with the solitude they need during the breeding season. Experts emphasize that tigers, in their natural habitat, have fewer places to hide as deforestation and uncontrolled human activities have reduced the forest’s dense cover.
The situation is further exacerbated by the widespread destruction of their natural environment. Human encroachment, including deforestation, the setting of fish traps, and the disturbance caused by tourists, forces tigers to abandon their traditional habitats and move closer to human settlements. Statistics reveal a troubling trend: from November to September, more than 38 tigers have entered human-populated areas in search of food, shelter, and safety.
Older or sick tigers, unable to hunt effectively, are particularly vulnerable. These tigers often turn to livestock for easy prey, putting both their lives and the livelihoods of local villagers in jeopardy. Many villagers, fearing for their safety and the welfare of their animals, resort to killing tigers, leading to a reduction in the tiger population. This human-tiger conflict is not only detrimental to wildlife but also threatens the balance of the ecosystem.
Experts warn that the increase in human-tiger conflict is a direct result of food scarcity, habitat destruction, and the growing human population in the area. If the situation continues unchecked, the repercussions will be far-reaching. Local villagers are suffering from the loss of their livestock and lives, while the tigers, driven to desperation, are becoming more vulnerable. The destruction of the ecosystem could ultimately result in the decline of both wildlife and the local human population.
To prevent further loss of life and protect the environment, experts stress the importance of conserving forests, maintaining wildlife habitats, and increasing awareness among local communities. Efforts to mitigate human-tiger conflict through education and effective wildlife conservation strategies are crucial in ensuring a sustainable coexistence between humans and tigers in the region.