Which State is Known as the Tiger State of India?

Tiger State of India: Madhya Pradesh is known as the Tiger State of India because it has the largest tiger population in the country. According to the 2022 Tiger Census, the state is home to 785 tigers, making it the leading state for tiger conservation. This title reflects the state’s dedication to protecting India’s national animal.

Why is Madhya Pradesh Called the Tiger State?

The name comes from its high tiger count and the presence of multiple world-famous tiger reserves. Madhya Pradesh’s climate, dense forests, and rich biodiversity create the perfect environment for tigers to thrive.

Tiger Population in Madhya Pradesh 

As per the 2022 All India Tiger Estimation, Madhya Pradesh has 785 tigers, surpassing Karnataka and Uttarakhand. This makes it the number one state in tiger population for two consecutive surveys.

Famous Tiger Reserves in Madhya Pradesh

The state is home to renowned reserves such as Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Satpura, and Panna. Each reserve offers unique landscapes and is a major tourist attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.

Tiger Conservation in Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh has been part of Project Tiger since its launch in 1973. Over the years, strict anti-poaching laws, habitat restoration, and eco-tourism have helped the tiger population grow significantly.

Difference Between Tiger State and Tiger Reserves

The title “Tiger State” refers to the state with the highest tiger population, while tiger reserves are specific protected areas for their conservation. Madhya Pradesh holds both top tiger numbers and reserves.

Contribution to India’s Total Tiger Count

India is home to over 70% of the world’s wild tigers, and Madhya Pradesh contributes more than 20% to this number. This makes the state a key player in global tiger conservation efforts.

Best Time to Visit the Tiger State of India

The ideal time to see tigers in Madhya Pradesh is between October and June. During summer, sightings are more frequent as tigers visit waterholes.

Amazing Facts About Tigers 

1. Largest Wild Cat in the World

Tigers (Panthera tigris) are the biggest members of the cat family, with adult males weighing up to 300 kg and measuring over 3 metres in length, including the tail.

2. Unique Stripe Patterns

Each tiger has a one-of-a-kind stripe pattern, which helps camouflage them in tall grass. Even their skin underneath is striped the same way as their fur.

3. Excellent Swimmers

Tigers are strong swimmers and can cross rivers up to 7 km wide. They often bath to cool down in hot climates.

4. Powerful Hunters

A tiger’s bite force is about 1,000 PSI, enough to crush bones. They can bring down prey like sambar deer, wild boar, and even gaur, which can weigh over 1,000 kg.

5. Endangered Species

Wild tiger numbers have dropped drastically, with around 5,574 left globally as per the latest estimate. India holds more than 70% of the world’s wild tiger population, making its role in conservation vital.

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