Rare Royal Bengal Tiger Spotted in Dibru-Saikhowa National Park
A momentous discovery has been made in Assam's Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, as a Royal Bengal Tiger has been confirmed through photographic evidence for the first time since its designation as a national park. This significant development has sparked excitement among nature enthusiasts and forest officials alike.
First-Ever Recorded Sighting
Assam Forest Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary announced the groundbreaking discovery, stating that the tiger was spotted in the Kundaghat area of the park on December 14, 2025, with another confirmation on January 1, 2026. The sighting marks the first photographic evidence of a tiger in the park since it was declared a national park.
Extensive Monitoring and Collaboration
The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Tinsukia Wildlife Division, Bibison Tokbi, shared that a joint team of the forest department and the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) had carried out camera-trapping inside the park for the last one month. Sixty camera traps were installed, and the tiger was recorded on two occasions.
Implications for Dibru-Saikhowa and the Northeast
This sighting holds immense importance for the conservation of Royal Bengal Tigers in the Northeast region of India. Dibru-Saikhowa National Park and Biosphere Reserve, under the Tinsukia Wildlife Division, has created a new milestone in wildlife preservation, offering hope for the future of this endangered species in the region.
Other Significant Wildlife Sightings
Forest officials have reported additional significant wildlife sightings within the park, such as the first-time spotting of a porcupine and the observation of a wild dog-like animal. Continued monitoring and identification efforts are underway, with assistance from WTI, to further understand the park's diverse wildlife population.
Looking Forward
The sighting of the Royal Bengal Tiger in Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is a testament to the importance of conservation efforts and collaborative work between government agencies and NGOs. As we continue to monitor and protect this precious ecosystem, we can look forward to more exciting discoveries and the preservation of India's rich biodiversity.