Forest Department Identifies Tiger Responsible for Dairy Farmer’s death in Wayanad

KOZHIKODE: The forest department has successfully identified the tiger responsible for the killing and partial devouring of a dairy farmer near Koodallur, Wayanad. The 13-year-old male tiger, known as WWL-45 in the department’s database, was captured in camera traps installed in the area. The tiger is a resident of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (WWS).

A special team consisting of 80 members has been deployed to track down and capture the elusive tiger. To aid in the search operations, two trained kumki elephants named Vikram and Bharat have been brought in from the Muthanga elephant camp. These elephants will assist in areas with dense bushes and outgrowth.

South Wayanad divisional forest officer, Shajna Kareem, stated, “We have obtained camera trap images that have provided us with an idea of the tiger’s presence in the area.”

Forest minister, AK Saseendran, has issued orders to shoot the tiger dead as it has been identified as a man-eater. Five patrolling teams, accompanied by shooters and doctors, have been deployed in the area. Additionally, 25 camera traps and two trap cages have been installed to monitor the tiger’s movements.

Despite extensive searches conducted by the rapid response team, trackers, and other members of the special team, the tiger has not yet been spotted in the Koodallur and Moodakkolly areas.

Renowned wildlife expert and veterinarian, Dr. Arun Zachariah, who has successfully tranquilized many problem elephants and tigers, has joined the special team upon the forest department’s request. Dr. Zachariah, formerly the chief forest veterinary officer and now serving in animal husbandry, brings valuable expertise to the team.

Meanwhile, Wayanad Prakrithi Samrakshana Samiti (WPSS) has called for action against the Kerala Independent Farmers Association (KIFA) for allegedly exploiting the tiger kill incident to create panic and spread false propaganda against forest officials. WPSS President N Badusha accused KIFA of attempting to pit farmers against South Wayanad DFO Shajna Kareem by unleashing false propaganda and hate campaigns.

The WPSS has urged the state government and district administration to address the situation and support the forest officials who have been tirelessly working to resolve the issue.