By Arun Pratap Singh
Garhwal Post Bureau
Ramnagar, 30 Sep: The Corbett Tiger Reserve has achieved a rare veterinary milestone with the successful surgery on its oldest tiger at the Dhikala Rescue Centre. The 20-year-old male tiger, rescued from the Dhikala zone in 2019, has astonished specialists and experts with its exceptional age and posed a major challenge for wildlife veterinarians owing to the complexity of the surgery. However, as a result of the expertise of doctors and the use of modern equipment, the operation was successfully conducted and the tiger is now reported to be in a stable condition.
It may be recalled that this particular tiger was originally rescued from Dhikala in 2019 after it had reportedly attacked three forest personnel during patrolling. Following this, the tiger was captured and permanently shifted to the Dhela Rescue Centre to prevent any further human-wildlife conflict. Since then, it has remained at the centre and is now recognised as its oldest resident. Wildlife experts note that the average lifespan of tigers in Corbett is between 12 and 15 years. However, in captivity, wild animals can have a longer life span and rare longevity due to stress free life and the sustained care and improved medical support. They regard the tiger’s survival beyond 20 years as a remarkable achievement, unlikely without timely intervention.
According to Dr Dushyant Sharma, Senior Veterinary Officer at Corbett Tiger Reserve, the tiger was recently found to be suffering from a severe ear infection. Initial attempts at treatment through oral medication failed, and further diagnosis revealed Otitis Interna, a serious condition aggravated by pus accumulation. Dr Sharma explained that administering anaesthesia to a 20-year-old tiger carried significant risk, but the veterinary team proceeded with utmost caution and succeeded in completing the procedure. For the first time, newly acquired equipment, including an X-ray machine, blood analysis system and advanced surgical tools, have been employed, enabling the doctors to drain the pus and control the infection effectively. Following the operation, the tiger’s condition has shown marked improvement.
Director, Corbett Tiger Reserve, Dr Saket Badola shared that the problem was identified some time ago and, with the permission of the Chief Wildlife Warden, a committee was constituted to oversee the matter. A team of three wildlife veterinarians was then assigned to carry out the surgery using advanced medical facilities. He added that the results have so far been encouraging, and the tiger is recovering well.
At present, the Dhela Rescue Centre shelters 11 tigers and 14 leopards, all rescued from different regions following incidents of conflict with humans. Experts believe the longevity of this 20-year-old tiger stands as a testament to the effectiveness of wildlife management at Corbett, proving that enhanced care and modern medical facilities can extend the lives of big cats well beyond their expected span. They maintain that the success of this operation is significant not only for conservation but also for veterinary science, demonstrating that advanced technology coupled with professional expertise can make the seemingly impossible possible. The long life of this tiger now serves as an inspiration for further conservation efforts and for the care of other rescued animals in the reserve.
