International Tiger Day 2024: Celebrating legendary tigers and the global conservation crusade

Observed on July 29 each year, International Tiger Day, also called Global Tiger Day, brings attention to tiger conservation. It aims to raise awareness about the conservation of tigers, who, despite their magnificence, face the brink of extinction due to poaching, habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict. Initiated at the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit in 2010, the day serves as a reminder of the collective efforts of 13 tiger range countries under the TX2 programme. with the ambitious goal to double the wild tiger population by 2022.

International Tiger Day 2024: Historical context and purpose

The inception of International Tiger Day in 2010 at the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit was a critical juncture in wildlife conservation. With the alarming revelation that 97 % of the tiger population had vanished by the 21st century, the 13 tiger range countries came together to form TX2. This initiative set a bold goal: to double the number of wild tigers from 3,200 to at least 6,000. It aimed to tackle threats such as poaching, habitat fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflict by fostering international cooperation and awareness.

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International Tiger Day 2024: Celebrating 10 iconic tigers of India

According to News18 to highlight the importance of tiger conservation, this year’s International Tiger Day pays tribute to some of India’s most famous tigers and tigresses each playing a pivotal role in the nation’s tiger conservation narrative.

Collarwali, Pench National Park: Dubbed the “Supermom of Pench,” Collarwali earned her name for being the first tigress in Pench fitted with a radio collar. Her contribution to tiger conservation is unparalleled, with a record 29 cubs birthed, earning her the affectionate title “Mataram” (beloved mother).

Machli, Ranthambore National Park: Known as the “Tigress Queen of Ranthambore,” Machli’s legendary presence not only boosted the tiger population in India but also contributed to Ranthambore’s reputation as a wildlife tourism hotspot. With 11 cubs born between 1999 and 2006, she significantly increased the tiger count from 15 to 50. Her remarkable life was honoured by the Indian government with a commemorative postal cover and stamp in 2013.

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Maya, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve: Known for her fierce demeanor, Maya is the reigning queen of Tadoba National Park. Her territorial disputes with other tigresses showcase the challenges of shrinking habitats and the survival instincts of these majestic creatures.

Paro, Corbett Tiger Reserve: First spotted in 2013-14, Paro is known for her petite size yet formidable prowess, having dethroned two tiger matriarchs to establish her dominance across the Ramganga river’s shores.

Munna, Kanha National Park: Known as the “King of Kanha,” Munna’s unique stripe patterns that resemble the word “CAT” on his forehead are as famous as his legendary tales of territorial dominance. Now succeeded by his son, Chota Munna, his legacy continues.

Vijay, Delhi Zoo: Vijay, the white tiger, became infamous for his encounter with a 22-year-old intruder but is equally celebrated for his role in Delhi Zoo’s successful breeding programme. fathering five cubs with his mate, Kalpana.

Prince, Bandipur National Park: A dominant figure in Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Prince was one of the most photographed tigers until his untimely death in 2017, leaving behind a rich legacy of photographic records.

Kankati, Bandhavgarh National Park: Known as Vijaya, Kankati’s fierce battles and leadership over Bandhavgarh’s regions are immortalised in Shivang Mehta’s book “A Decade with Tigers,” depicting her dramatic rise to power.

Bamera, Bandhavgarh National Park: As the largest tiger ever known in Bandhavgarh, Bamera’s reign began after deposing his father, B2. His dominance is a significant chapter in the history of Bandhavgarh’s wildlife.

Waghdoh, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve: Named after a local waterhole, Waghdoh’s territorial conquests are legendary, having dethroned rival tiger Yeda Anna. Despite his demise in 2022, his legacy remains a testament to the resilience of the species.

International Tiger Day 2024: Theme and global significance

This year, International Tiger Day 2024 focuses on strengthening international conservation efforts. With events, competitions and educational programmes worldwide, the aim is to amplify public awareness and urge the global community to intensify efforts for wildlife protection. The emphasis is on:

Expanding protected areas: Ensuring safe habitats for tigers to thrive and roam freely.

Promoting sustainable livelihoods: Encouraging local communities to engage in tiger-friendly practices ensuring economic benefits while conserving wildlife.

Preserving ecosystem balance: Highlighting the tiger’s role as an apex predator and umbrella species, vital for maintaining ecological equilibrium.

Tigers as apex predators and umbrella species

Tigers are not just symbols of strength and majesty but are crucial to maintaining the balance in their ecosystems. As apex predators, they regulate prey populations, which in turn sustains the biodiversity within their habitats. Often termed “Umbrella Species,” the conservation of tigers also benefits numerous other species sharing their environment underscoring the interconnectedness of ecological preservation.

Path to a safer future for tigers

The celebration of International Tiger Day 2024 serves as both a celebration of the strides made in tiger conservation and a solemn reminder of the work still needed. As global efforts continue under the TX2 framework and beyond, the hope is to ensure a thriving future for these magnificent creatures, safeguarding them for generations to come.