Warangal: The movement of a tiger along the Godavari riverbank has become a major concern for forest officials, police, and local residents in the erstwhile Warangal district. The officials spotted the footprints of a tiger in Kothaguda forest region in Mahbubabad on Thursday.
Approximately one and a half months ago, the tiger entered Telangana from Chhattisgarh via the Godavari riverbank. Its footprints were first spotted in Mulugu, followed by sightings in Bhadradri Kothagudem, Mulugu again, and later in Mahbubabad and Warangal districts.
Forest officials speculate that the tiger might have originated from sanctuaries such as Tadoba, Tippeshwar, or Kadamba. After a two-week absence, it reappeared in Mulugu forests and was later seen in Rudragudem of Nallabelli mandal, Warangal district. Authorities are still determining whether it is the same tiger or if two are present.
Officials are uncertain if the tiger will establish its territory in the area or return to its native habitat. Some believe it is searching for a new territory, while others suggest it may be seeking a mate, as winter is the ideal season for tiger mating.
Mulugu district forest officer (DFO) Rahul Kishan Jadav explained that mother tigers care for their cubs until they are 18 months to two years old, after which the cubs seek their own territories. The tiger in question, a two-year-old sub-adult male, appears to favour the Godavari belt, which includes Mulugu, Khammam, Bhupalpally, and Mahbubabad districts, known for their dense forests. Tigers prefer areas that are safe and provide abundant prey, he added.
Mahbubabad DFO B. Vishal noted that tigers are naturally shy and tend to avoid human habitation, roaming primarily in forests. He emphasised that the tiger, being young and healthy, is not a threat to humans as it can hunt effectively. Older tigers with diminished hunting abilities are more likely to attack humans.
Tigers can travel 35–40 km daily and survive without food for up to four days. The tiger might be exploring the region or searching for a mate. Dense foliage makes tracking its movements challenging for forest staff.
Residents have been cautioned against provoking the tiger, as it could lead to attacks. Villagers are advised to report sightings to forest officials and avoid visiting fields at night.
To monitor the tiger's movement, six teams have been deployed in Mulugu and three in Mahbubabad. Tracking cameras have been installed at various locations, and comprehensive measures are being implemented to mitigate risks to both the tiger and the public.
