Shuklaphanta National Park’s tiger population rises to 43 in 2024 survey

July 29, Kathmandu:  Shuklaphanta National Park’s Royal Bengal tiger population has increased to 43 in 2024, up from 36 the previous year, according to a recent survey. The rise reflects effective conservation efforts but highlights the park’s growing challenge in managing its dense tiger population.

The survey, conducted from November 3 to December 25, 2024, used camera-trapping across 100 2×2 km grids, capturing 1,069 tiger images. Senior Conservation Officer Chandra Shekhar Chaudhary reported 43 adult tigers—21 males and 22 females—crediting abundant prey species and improved habitat management. In 2013, the park had only 16 tigers.

Supported by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) and Zoological Society of London (ZSL), the monitoring followed Nepal’s Tiger and Prey Monitoring Protocol. NTNC’s Shuklaphanta program head, Laxmi Joshi, confirmed tigers roaming across the park’s grasslands and eastern sector.

The 305 km² park, known for its barasingha deer and 464 bird species, includes 52% sal forest and 19% grassland. With one tiger needing about 65 km², Shuklaphanta’s high density—one tiger per 7 km²—showcases the success of its conservation measures.

The park, established in 1976 and expanded to a national park in 2016, connects to India’s Lagga Bagga forest, supporting diverse wildlife including rhinos, elephants, and hispid hares.