Why Every Tiger Carcass Needs an Autopsy

Background

• India has ~3,167 tigers (All India Tiger Estimation 2022) – >70% of global population.
• Tiger deaths are closely monitored under Project Tiger (1973) and NTCA (National Tiger Conservation Authority).
• Each carcass is critical evidence for conservation, anti-poaching, and disease monitoring.

Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) , GS 2(Governance)

Why Autopsy (Postmortem) is Necessary

• Forensic evidence: Determines cause of death (natural, poaching, poisoning, infighting).
• Legal accountability: Tiger = Schedule I species under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 → highest protection.
• Early warning system: Identifies outbreaks (canine distemper, epidemics).
• Territorial insights: Infighting among tigers is common – carcasses reveal patterns.

Procedure after Discovery

1. Field staff must immediately report carcass to divisional forest officer, range officer, and NTCA.
2. Scene secured, photographs & videos taken, evidence collected (teeth marks, wounds, location, GPS).
3. Postmortem conducted by vet in presence of officials, local NGOs, NTCA.
4. Samples of tissue, organs, viscera collected for lab tests.
5. If postmortem not possible onsite, carcass preserved → later detailed exam.
6. Carcass disposal: Cremated in presence of officials; bones burnt to prevent misuse (illegal trade).

Challenges

• Delayed reporting → carcass decomposes, weakens evidence.
• Capacity gaps: Not enough trained wildlife vets, forensic labs.
• Possible cover-ups: Local staff sometimes collude to hide negligence/poaching.
• Weak monitoring in buffer zones outside protected areas.

Significance for Conservation

• Maintains transparency in tiger conservation.
• Strengthens India’s global image as a leader in big cat conservation.
• Prevents illegal wildlife trade (bones, skins highly valued in black markets).
• Ensures accountability of forest staff.

Way Forward

• Strengthen NTCA protocols – faster reporting, digital monitoring.
• Build wildlife forensic labs at regional levels.
• Train forest staff in wildlife crime scene management.
• Enhance community vigilance near reserves.
• Integrate technology: drones, camera traps for better carcass detection.