Tigress MT-7 shifted to 21-hectare enclosure for rewilding

A rescued tigress, MT-7, has been shifted from a five-hectare enclosure to a larger 21-hectare enclosure at Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve (Rajasthan) as part of a phased rewilding programme aimed at preparing her for eventual release into the wild.

The tigress was rescued as a young cub from Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (Rajasthan) following the death of her mother. She and another cub were brought to Abheda Biological Park, where they were kept under controlled conditions for nearly 22 months. During this period, officials ensured minimal human interaction while exposing them to live prey to help develop natural hunting instincts, according to a press release issued on Saturday.

Subsequently, the female cub was transferred to a five-hectare rewilding enclosure at Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, where she spent around 14 months. Authorities said she demonstrated consistent hunting success, natural behavioural patterns, and strong adaptability to forest conditions.

A team of experts from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) recently conducted a site inspection to assess the tigress’s behaviour, hunting skills, and readiness for the next phase of rewilding. Based on detailed field observations and evaluations, the NTCA approved the phased implementation of the rewilding plan.

Following clearance from the Chief Wildlife Warden, a committee constituted by the Field Director of Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve comprising forest officers, veterinarians and wildlife biologists carried out the relocation in accordance with standard operating procedures and safety protocols.

The tigress was tranquilised at around 5.30 pm on Saturday, fitted with a radio collar, and her health and physical parameters were recorded before she was released into the larger enclosure. Her movements will now be continuously monitored to assess her adaptation to the expanded habitat.

Officials said the final decision on her release into the natural forest will be taken by the Chief Wildlife Warden based on her performance, behavioural assessment and expert recommendations. They added that such initiatives under Project Tiger have strengthened conservation outcomes, with India now home to nearly 70 per cent of the world’s wild tiger population , reflecting the success of sustained rewilding and protection efforts.