Tigress returns to Sundarbans after six months of treatment

A tigress that was critically injured after being trapped in a poacher's snare has been released back into the Sundarbans after six months of treatment and rehabilitation, marking a first in Bangladesh's history.

The tigress was released in the Andharmanic forest area and eco-tourism centre adjacent to the Chandpai Range of the East Sundarbans on Sunday morning, July 12. Environment, Forest and Climate Change State Minister Lion Dr Sheikh Faridul Islam, Chief Conservator of Forests Amir Hossain Chowdhury, and other officials and wildlife experts were present.

"This is the first time a sick Sundarbans tiger has been treated, fully recovered and released back into the wild in Bangladesh," said State Minister Faridul Islam.

The tigress, aged 10-11 years, was found trapped in a snare on January 3 in the Sharikhal forest area under the Chandpai Range. She had suffered severe injuries to her left front leg. After being rescued, she was treated at the Wildlife Management and Nature Conservation Division's rescue and rehabilitation centre in Khulna for six months.

Dr Nirmal Kumar Pal, Divisional Forest Officer of the department, said the injury had become infected, but with antibiotics, regular dressing and care, the wound healed by March. The tigress has now regained her mobility and natural behaviour.

The forest department has installed 20 infrared trap cameras in the area to monitor her movements and adaptation to the wild.