Beyond Zeenat: Inside Odisha’s next tiger translocation

Odisha's wildlife department has begun the second phase of tiger translocation to the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), following the successful relocation of two tigresses from the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) earlier this year. The Indian Express reports that the state has sought approval for the transfer of a male and female tiger from Central India, potentially from Maharashtra or Madhya Pradesh.

The proposal is still in the early stages, with a decision expected at the highest level after thorough deliberations. In 2024, two tigresses, named Zeenat and Jamuna, were relocated to Similipal as part of an initiative to increase genetic diversity in the tiger population. Similipal, located in northern Odisha, is renowned for its sole known population of pseudo-melanistic tigers, or black tigers, whose thick black stripes are believed to have developed due to geographical isolation and inbreeding.

The introduction of fresh genetic material from the relocated tigresses is seen as crucial to mitigate the risks associated with such inbreeding. Zeenat's relocation aimed to bring new genetic material and reduce the prevalence of genetic issues linked to inbreeding, a milestone confirmed by the birth of four healthy cubs in May 2025.

Jamuna, the first tigress moved to STR in October 2024, has yet to find a mate and has since moved to the Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary. Once state government approval is obtained, the proposal will be presented to the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests, with involvement from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

Additionally, the STR authorities have launched an investigation following the discovery of a dead pseudo-melanistic tiger in the core area of Similipal, specifically in the Upper Barakumuda region of the South Division.