The forest department of Andhra Pradesh is gearing up to launch a comprehensive tiger census across the state starting December 1, 2024. This nationwide survey, conducted every four years, represents a crucial effort to monitor and protect India's iconic big cats.
Census Timeline and Methodology
The first phase of the tiger count will run from December 1 to December 8, covering tiger reserves in Nallamala and Seshachalam forests along with other forest areas. Forest beat officers will meticulously record evidence of predators, co-predators, herbivores, while also conducting vegetation assessments and evaluating human disturbance impacts.
According to official forest department data, tiger numbers in Andhra Pradesh have been steadily increasing over the past four years, marking a significant conservation success story.
Advanced Technology in Wildlife Monitoring
Following the initial field surveys, forest staff will employ sophisticated technology for habitat characterization using remote sensing and GIS tools. The third phase will involve an extensive camera trap exercise across selected grids throughout the state.
A total of 12,886 camera trap points will be established across approximately 6,443 grids, with the monitoring process continuing for 45 to 60 days. These infrared-enabled cameras automatically capture images when animals cross their beams, providing invaluable data without human interference.
Remarkable Population Recovery
A recent census conducted by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) in 2024 confirmed that Nallamala forest now hosts 87 tigers. The breakdown shows 32 males, 40 females, 4 unclassified adults, and 11 cubs, indicating a healthy breeding population.
The tiger population in Andhra Pradesh has experienced significant fluctuations over the past three decades. From an estimated 95 tigers in 2006, numbers declined to 68 in 2014, then dropped further to 48 in 2018. The 2022 census showed improvement with 63 tigers, and the current count of 87 represents a substantial recovery.
The captured images from camera traps will undergo detailed laboratory analysis, where computers examine stripe patterns to identify individual tigers, much like fingerprint analysis in humans. The entire census operation is expected to take five to six months, after which the compiled data will be submitted to central government authorities.
This systematic approach to wildlife monitoring demonstrates India's commitment to tiger conservation and habitat protection, with Andhra Pradesh emerging as a success story in big cat preservation.
