BENGALURU/CHIKKAMAGALURU :cast week, the carcass of an adult tiger was found at Tanigebailu range in the wee hours. Earlier, highly decomposed carcasses were found in Hebbe range on May 19 and June 1 respectively. With this, the number of tiger deaths in Karnataka has risen to 16 in the last five and a half months.
On June 13, Tanigebailu range staff found the carcass of a 10-12 years old tiger near lantana bush at Godgallmatti anti-poaching camp.Autopsy proved the tiger must have died 10-12 days back. There were circular wound marks in the neck and a big tear mark in the stomach. Small wounds were found on the shoulder and abdominal regions. While skin and flesh were decomposed, its nails and teeth were intact.
ACF Sharanabasappa said, “We have sent the skin and bones for tests to CCMB, Hyderabad. External appearances hinted at death due to natural causes.”
Activists smell foul play
Wildlife activists from the district alleged that officials were deliberately allowing the bodies of dead tigers to decompose. “If the tiger’s body is fully decomposed, it is impossible to know the cause of death,” they said. Tanigebailu ACF, however, refuted such allegations, saying “There was no delay. Our staff was confused as at the same time, there was cattle death and foul smell emanating from the area. If anyone files a complaint of foul play, we will probe into the matter.”
TRACKING TOLL
May 19- Tiger found dead in Hebbe range
June 2- Another tiger
found in a decomposed state in Hebbe range
June 13- Third tiger
death reported from Tanigebailu zone