Kaziranga Tiger Reserve Reports Three Royal Bengal Tiger Deaths Due to Territorial Infighting

Assam’s Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (KTR) has reported the deaths of three Royal Bengal tigers between January 4 and January 18, 2026. According to park officials and preliminary post-mortem findings, the deaths appear to be the result of natural territorial infighting. The first carcass, a female tiger, was discovered on January 4 in the Western Range, followed by a young tiger found ten days later in the Eastern Range, and a third female tiger recovered on January 18. Each case was investigated by committees formed under the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) guidelines to ensure proper medical and procedural oversight.

Director of the reserve, Sonali Ghosh, emphasized that such clashes are a common, natural phenomenon in high-density habitats where tigers compete for dominance and territorial expansion. As of the most recent census, Kaziranga is home to a robust population of approximately 148 Royal Bengal tigers, and officials view these incidents as a byproduct of a strong and healthy ecosystem. While the losses are notable, the authorities confirmed that the carcasses were disposed of following standard protocols, and they continue to monitor the movements of the remaining tiger population within the reserve.