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TL;DR
- Latest survey estimates 120-125 adult Bengal tigers in Bangladesh Sundarbans, a slight increase from 114 in 2018 and 106 in 2015
- Comprehensive census using 1,300 camera traps across 665 spots in all 4 Sundarbans ranges, with results to be released on October 8
- Remarkable finding of 18-19 tiger cubs, a significant rise from only 5 in previous years, sparking hope for future population growth
- Despite steady increase, Sundarbans tigers still face threats like poaching and habitat loss, prompting conservation efforts by Bangladesh government
The Bengal Tiger population in the Bangladesh part of the Sundarbans mangrove forest has shown a slow but steady increase, according to recent surveys conducted by the forest department. The current count of adult tigers is estimated to be between 120 and 125, a slight rise from the 114 tigers recorded in 2018 and 106 in 2015.
A top official from the forest department involved in the latest survey, conducted between 2022 and 2023, stated, “The continued increase in tiger population, albeit small, is a positive sign.” The official results of the survey are expected to be released on October 8.
The census, which utilized camera traps, was the most comprehensive to date, covering all four ranges of the Sundarbans. Over 1,300 cameras were set up at 665 spots, with 200 in the Satkhira range, 140 in the Khulna range, 180 in Sharankhola, and 145 in the Chandpai range.
Dr Abu Nasir Mohsin Hossain, divisional forest officer of the Sundarban West Division in Khulna, highlighted a remarkable finding from the survey: the discovery of 18-19 tiger cubs in the sanctuary, which covers 53 percent of the forest area. This marks a significant increase compared to the five cubs found in both 2014 and 2018. Dr Hossain expressed hope that the 2028 census will reveal a substantial rise in the tiger population.
Despite the steady growth in numbers, the Sundarbans still face threats such as poaching and habitat loss. To address these challenges, the Bangladesh government has implemented various conservation measures, including the Tiger Action Plan and the National Tiger Recovery Programme.
Historical surveys of the Bengal Tiger population in the Bangladeshi Sundarbans have shown fluctuations over time. In 1975, Bubert Hendrichs found 350 tigers, while Margaret Salter estimated 425 tigers in 1982. Rex Gittins’ 1984 survey of the Sundarbans South Wildlife Sanctuary indicated a population of 430 to 450 tigers. In 1992, the forest department estimated 359 tigers based on data collected from Sundarbans workers. Dhan Bahadur Tamang’s 1993 pugmark census covered 350 sq km and recorded 362 tigers. A 2004 pugmark census put the number at 440.
As Bangladesh continues its efforts to protect this iconic species, the future of the Bengal Tiger in the Sundarbans appears increasingly hopeful.
