Third Tigress Released into the Wild at Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, Boosting Conservation Efforts in Western Maharashtra
Third Tigress Released into the Wild at Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, Boosting Conservation Efforts in Western Maharashtra
Satara, February 7, 2026:
The Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR) marked a major milestone in wildlife conservation with the successful release of its third tigress into the wild. The tigress, officially designated as STR 06, was released into the core forest area of the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary early Saturday morning.
The tigress was captured on February 6, at around 5 pm from the Nagalwadi forest range of Pench Tiger Reserve. Following her capture, she was safely transported to the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. The animal was then moved by boat and brought to the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary on Friday night.
Upon arrival, veterinary officers conducted a thorough medical examination. The tigress was provided with water and meat, both of which she consumed, indicating stable health. On Saturday at 6 am, she was released at a secure location within the core forest zone of the sanctuary.
Forest officials stated that the introduction of tigress STR 06 alongside the existing male tiger STR 03 (‘Baji’) is expected to strengthen the tiger population in the Koyna region and significantly enhance wildlife tourism potential in the sanctuary.
The Sahyadri Tiger Reserve is a flagship government conservation project spread across 1,165 sq km in the districts of Satara, Sangli and Kolhapur, and is known for its rich biodiversity and presence of several rare species.
The entire operation was successfully carried out under the guidance of Tushar Chavan, Field Director, Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, with leadership support from Deputy Director Kiran Jagtap, Assistant Conservator of Forests Baba Hakke, and coordinated efforts of forest officers Sangram Godse (Flying Squad), Akshay Salunkhe (Koyna), Vijay Bate (Bamnoli), Tushar Jankar (Patan), Akshay Karmalkar (Kandat), along with honorary wildlife guards Rohan Bhate and Sunil Bhoite, forest guards and frontline staff.
Info Box:
The tigress was earlier identified as PTR 123 at Pench Tiger Reserve. After her relocation to Sahyadri, she has been officially registered as STR 06. Local forest guides and staff have affectionately named her ‘Hirkani’.
