In a recent census on the population of tigers carried out in the Papikondalu wildlife sanctuary, the forest wildlife management authorities have identified the presence of five tigers including four adults and a cub and 15 leopards.
With an exception of a newborn cub, the forest authorities did not confirm whether the number of tigers has gone up or dwindled. However, they con firmed that there were no reports of poaching of tigers in the sanctuary limits.
The forest conservator (wildlife management), Mr S.K. Sinha said, “We have carried out the tiger population census based on the norms recommended. Our people kept a tab on pug marks, litter and other evidences to substantiate the presence of the wild animals in the sanctuary limits.” authorities The forest have also prepared proposals for setting up water sources for the wild animals in certain pockets of the forest areas following the recent cases of straying of the big cats into human habitations. The forest authorities intend to set up water sources for the animals to quench their thirst. The areas will be selected where there are no water sources like creeks, rivulets and tanks. The forest authorities will dig tanks, construct check dams to store water, dig trenches and set up concrete tanks.
Water will be carried through tankers and these sources will be filled up with water wherever possible and help the animals quench their thirst.
The district forest officer, Mr B. Ananda Mohan said, “We are in the process of preparation of the proposals for setting up the water sources. We are hopeful that by next summer, the animals will not face any water problem.”