The carcass of a tiger declared a ‘man-eater’ was discovered in Wayanad, Kerala, days after it claimed the life of a 45-year-old tribal woman, Radha. She was fatally attacked while collecting coffee beans near her settlement in Pancharakkolly, Mananthavady.
The tiger’s body bore deep gashes on its neck and multiple wounds, which officials suspect were caused by infighting with other wild animals. Dr. Arun Sakaria, Chief Veterinary Surgeon of the Forest Department, confirmed that the tiger was not shot, and the injuries appeared to be old.
Following Radha’s death, the Kerala government had issued an order to cull the tiger due to its threat to human life. However, the animal was found dead before the order could be executed.
This incident has intensified concerns in the region, with residents alarmed over the increasing frequency of human-wildlife conflicts. Forest officials have launched an investigation into the tiger’s death and are considering measures to enhance safety and address the growing challenges of coexistence between humans and wildlife in the area.
