After 1989 extinction, long-lost tiger returns to Gujarat, settling in Ratanmahal Forest

After 1989 Extinction, Tiger Makes Surprise Return to Gujarat Sanctuary (Image: Canva)

A lone tiger now moves through the deep green hills of Ratanmahal, stirring hope in a state that has not seen a resident tiger for more than 30 years. Forest teams now watch the animal closely as Gujarat wonders if its tiger era is returning.

Tiger Settles in Ratanmahal Wildlife Sanctuary
Gujarat has confirmed that a wandering tiger has made Ratanmahal Wildlife Sanctuary in Dahod district its new home. State Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said the big cat entered the state nearly 9 months ago and has stayed inside the forest since then. He said Gujarat can now claim the presence of lions, leopards and a tiger once again.

The minister said the tiger was first recorded on CCTV cameras inside the sanctuary in February this year. Forest staff tracked it over the next 9 months and captured its movement at regular intervals. Officials said these repeated sightings show the animal has settled in the forest and appears healthy.

Forest Teams Strengthen Prey Base for Tiger
Officials have shifted some herbivores into the forest to ensure the tiger gets enough prey. The move aims to support the big cat’s survival while keeping the ecological balance steady. The National Tiger Conservation Authority has been informed about the tiger’s presence and has been asked for guidance on the next steps.

Gujarat Hopes for a Tiger Revival
Forest records show tigers went extinct in Gujarat in 1989. In 2019, another tiger was detected in Mahisagar district, but hopes faded when the animal was found dead two weeks later. The new tiger in Ratanmahal has brought back cautious optimism, and officials now hope this rare arrival marks the beginning of a revival for the striped cat in the state.