Over the course of the past 11 months, a total of 109 wild animals, including 22 one-horned rhinos and three tigers, have tragically lost their lives in Chitwan National Park (CNP), revealing a concerning situation for wildlife conservation in the area.
According to the CNP authorities, the causes of death varied among the animals. Out of the 71 wild animals that succumbed to mortality, the majority perished due to natural causes such as aging, illness, and fatal encounters with other animals in the ecosystem. Additionally, 26 animals fell victim to attacks by dogs, while two unfortunate creatures were electrocuted, and one suffered a fatal outcome from internal fighting. Shockingly, one animal fell victim to poaching, highlighting the persistent threat faced by endangered species in the region. Furthermore, one animal was swept away by natural forces, while another met its untimely demise in quicksand, emphasizing the perilous challenges of survival in the park’s diverse landscape.
Although the precise causes of death for two animals remain unknown, three others passed away due to different reasons that were not elaborated upon. Among the deceased rhinos, 13 were discovered in Nawalparasi, while the remaining nine were found within the boundaries of Chitwan district, underscoring the widespread impact of this unfortunate trend.
Ganesh Prasad Tiwari, the Information Officer at CNP, provided insight into the fate of the tigers, revealing that all three individuals died naturally without external influence. This information raises questions regarding the overall health and ecological balance within the CNP.
Tragically, the loss of life was not limited to rhinos and tigers alone. During this same time frame, two elephants also perished within the confines of Chitwan National Park, adding to the growing concerns surrounding wildlife conservation efforts.
In a more positive light, the CNP reported that 117 wild animals were successfully rescued and safeguarded during this period, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the somber news. The diligent efforts to protect and preserve the diverse range of wildlife within the park serve as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to conservation and the tireless work of the dedicated individuals involved.
These distressing statistics highlight the urgent need for enhanced measures to protect and safeguard the vulnerable wildlife populations in Chitwan National Park. It is imperative that further research, monitoring, and conservation efforts are implemented to prevent the loss of such precious species and maintain the delicate balance of this remarkable ecosystem.