What was the estimated tiger population in the

Solution

At the time of the expansion, STR had an estimated 101 tigers. This population estimate is a key baseline for wildlife managers: the expansion is expected to help population growth by consolidating habitat, improving adherence to NTCA guidelines, and enabling better funding and management. However, the reserve faces operational challenges—the brief cites a 40% manpower shortage, financial constraints, and concerns from local fishing communities about livelihood impacts. Knowing the current population (101) helps in setting targets for future monitoring, anti-poaching patrols, and human–wildlife conflict mitigation.