Odisha is set to launch the world’s first melanistic (black) tiger safari near Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district by the end of this year. The state government’s proposal has received “in-principle” approval from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and endorsement from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), according to Susanta Nanda, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests.
Initially, melanistic tigers from Nandan Kanan Zoo in Bhubaneswar will be relocated to the 200-hectare safari, located 15 km from Similipal Tiger Reserve and adjacent to NH-18. About 100 hectares will be dedicated to display areas, with the rest accommodating veterinary facilities, a rescue center, staff infrastructure, and visitor amenities. This site mirrors Similipal’s natural landscape, aiming to boost wildlife tourism and offer unique conservation opportunities.
Similipal Tiger Reserve is the only place globally where wild melanistic tigers are found. This initiative, first announced by former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in January, underscores the importance of protecting Odisha’s forests as crucial corridors for tiger populations from Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
According to the All Odisha Tiger Estimation (AOTE) 2023-24, the state’s Royal Bengal Tiger population has increased to 30. However, the All India Tiger Estimation (AITE) 2022 report had put the number at 17, mostly in Similipal.
In Baripada, International Tiger Day 2024 was marked with a 5-km mini-marathon organized by Similipal North Wildlife Division, promoting community engagement in wildlife and forest conservation.
