Habitat concerns grow as Nepal counts a record 429 tigers
Summary
Nepal's tiger population reached a record 429, highlighting conservation success while raising concerns about habitat management and human-tiger conflicts across protected areas.
Key Points
- Nepal's tiger population hit a record 429 in the latest national census, up by 74 from 2022.
- Tiger numbers increased in all major protected areas except Bardiya National Park, which saw a decline.
- Human-tiger conflicts remain a challenge with 10 fatalities reported in the last fiscal year despite conservation gains.
- Experts stress the need for improved habitat management, community cooperation, and long-term policies to sustain tiger populations and minimize conflicts.