Rangers Protecting Tigers, One Jacket at a Time!
Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh, India, is home to one of the largest populations of wild tigers in the world. Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is surrounded by a human population of more than 6,000 and livestock exceeding 11,000 animals. Buffer zones provide a natural barrier between tigers and people, but the tigers missed the memo and often cross into livestock areas. The temptation is just too much for our tiger friends who mistake farm animals for a free feed, upsetting the local communities. Human-wildlife conflict and illegal poaching pose the greatest threats to the Bandhavgarh tigers who often fall victim to snares or poisoning.
Rangers in Bandhavgarh contacted us recently, requesting equipment for their anti-poaching patrols. Freezing temperatures and inadequate clothing and resources made their work not only uncomfortable but dangerous. They were also underprepared for their work removing and relocating snakes that had a habit of visiting villages and homes. A lack of funding set a very real barrier between these committed rangers and the most basic equipment they needed to work safely and effectively. Their needs were clear – warm jackets, flashlights, and snake rescue kits were needed urgently.
Thanks to generous support of the Thin Green Line community, we were able to respond to this call for help, providing funding for warm jackets and flashlights for night patrols, and snake rescue kits for safe relocation of wayward reptiles. This critical ranger team, who have been responsible for a 98% reduction in tiger deaths in their area from poaching and poisoning, can continue their crucial work in protecting tigers and their habitat, and educating the local communities about the importance of conservation. The area’s population of leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, wolves, hyenas, and langurs are also well protected thanks to these dedicated rangers. Simple items really can have a considerable impact on conservation efforts.
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