Tiger Census 2024

By Lani Tamang

Nepal’s commitment to tiger conservation continues with the 2024 tiger census, focusing on Banke, Shuklaphanta, and Bardiya National Parks. This annual initiative, led by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) under the Nepal government’s Tiger Protocol, aims to monitor tiger populations in low-density areas to ensure their long-term survival.

The census employs camera traps to gather data on tiger movements and populations. In Banke and Bardiya, 179 grids have been established, with cameras placed at two-kilometer intervals for comprehensive coverage. As of now, 37 out of the 179 grids have been completed, with work progressing in four designated blocks. In Shuklaphanta National Park, the camera-trapping phase began on November 30, 2024, deploying camera traps in 101 locations and conducting line transects in 74 areas. This combination of methods ensures robust data collection, enabling accurate estimation of the park’s tiger population.

The census is a collaborative effort involving NTNC as the leading body agency, supported by Banke National Park, the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), and the Darwin Initiative. Additionally, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Panthera have extended their support for the Shuklaphanta survey, highlighting the international significance of Nepal’s tiger conservation efforts.

Nepal has made remarkable progress in tiger conservation. As a signatory to the Global Tiger Recovery Program (GTRP), Nepal pledged to double its tiger population from 121 in 2010 to 250 by 2022. This ambitious goal was surpassed, with Nepal reporting a population of 355 tigers in 2022, marking an incredible conservation milestone.  The ongoing census ensures that the country continues to monitor and protect this progress, particularly in areas where tiger densities are lower.

In addition to counting tigers, the census provides valuable insights into the overall health of Nepal’s ecosystems. Tigers are apex predators and serve as indicators of ecological balance. A thriving tiger population reflects a healthy environment with adequate prey species, water sources, and forest cover. Conversely, declines in tiger numbers often signal underlying issues such as habitat degradation, human-wildlife conflict, or poaching.

The results of the census are expected to be analyzed and finalized by March 2025. This timeline allows researchers sufficient time to process the vast amount of data collected through camera traps and field surveys. Advanced statistical models and software will be used to estimate tiger densities and identify individual tigers based on their unique stripe patterns.

Beyond its scientific importance, the tiger census has far-reaching implications for Nepal’s conservation strategies and policies. Accurate population estimates enable authorities to allocate resources effectively, prioritize conservation areas, and address challenges such as human-tiger conflict. The data also strengthens Nepal’s position as a global leader in wildlife conservation, attracting international funding and collaboration for future projects.

However, tiger conservation in Nepal is not without its challenges. Human-wildlife conflict remains a significant issue, particularly in areas where tiger habitats overlap with human settlements. Encroachment on forest areas for agriculture and infrastructure development further threatens tiger habitats. Poaching, though significantly reduced in recent years, remains a concern, particularly for the illegal trade in tiger parts.

To address these challenges, NTNC and its partners emphasize the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts. Local communities play a crucial role in protecting tiger habitats and reducing conflict. Initiatives such as ecotourism, community forests, and awareness campaigns help foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents, ensuring long-term sustainability.

As the 2024 tiger census progresses, the commitment of NTNC and its partners underscores Nepal’s dedication to preserving its rich biodiversity. The support of international organizations like ZSL, Panthera, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service highlights the global significance of this endeavor. The findings from this census will not only contribute to Nepal’s conservation goals but also serve as a valuable resource for global tiger conservation efforts.

Nepal’s remarkable achievements in tiger conservation have inspired hope for the survival of this iconic species in the days ahead. With continued efforts and collaboration, the nation is well-positioned to ensure that its forests remain a safe haven for tigers, preserving their legacy for future generations.