Periyar Tiger Reserve Launches Intensive Camera Trapping Phase for National Tiger Census
The third and crucial phase of camera trapping under the 2025–26 All India Tiger Estimation has officially begun at Periyar Tiger Reserve in Idukki, Kerala. This marks a significant milestone in India's ongoing efforts to accurately assess and monitor its national tiger population through scientific methodology.
Strategic Deployment of Camera Traps Across the Reserve
This intensive monitoring exercise follows an eight-day preliminary field survey conducted during the first phase, which successfully identified areas with confirmed tiger presence within the reserve. Based on these critical findings, wildlife officials have now deployed an extensive network of camera traps for detailed, continuous observation.
The entire Periyar Tiger Reserve has been systematically divided into 470 grids, each measuring two square kilometers. Of these, 353 grids fall under the Periyar east division while 117 are located in the west division. In a meticulous arrangement, two cameras have been installed in each grid to capture images of tigers from both sides, enabling precise identification through their unique stripe patterns—a method comparable to human fingerprint analysis.
This deployment totals 940 camera traps strategically positioned throughout the reserve's diverse terrain.
Comprehensive Monitoring and Data Collection Protocol
The camera trapping operation will continue uninterrupted for 30 consecutive days, scheduled to conclude on March 27. Prior to the commencement of this critical phase, special training sessions were conducted for frontline forest staff and officials on February 10 to ensure proper implementation of protocols and data collection standards.
Officials are conducting rigorous inspections in each grid once every four days to verify the smooth functioning of all cameras and ensure proper data collection. This regular maintenance is essential for minimizing technical failures and maximizing data accuracy throughout the monitoring period.
Scientific Methodology and National Coordination
Once the survey is completed, all collected data will undergo comprehensive analysis before being submitted to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). This centralized approach ensures standardized assessment across all tiger reserves in India.
"This camera trapping phase represents a critical component of our scientific approach to tiger conservation," said P P Pramod, Kerala nodal officer for All India Tiger Estimation and Field Director, Kottayam. "The data gathered will provide invaluable insights into tiger population dynamics, distribution patterns, and habitat utilization within Periyar Tiger Reserve."
The All India Tiger Estimation, conducted every four years, serves as the primary mechanism for assessing the conservation status of India's national animal. The 2025-26 census builds upon previous methodologies while incorporating technological advancements and refined protocols for greater accuracy.
This systematic approach to wildlife monitoring exemplifies India's commitment to evidence-based conservation strategies and sustainable management of its precious biodiversity heritage.
