Post-Mortem Confirms Identity of ‘Man-Eater’ Tiger Responsible for Wayanad Attack
A female tiger, aged around 4-5 years and declared a ‘man-eater’ after fatally attacking a woman, was found dead in Kerala’s Wayanad district early Monday morning. According to wildlife officials, the autopsy revealed the presence of the victim’s hair, clothing, and earrings in the tiger’s stomach, confirming its involvement in the attack, PTI reported.
The woman, identified as Radha, was mauled while collecting coffee beans near the forest edge in the Pancharakolli area on Saturday. The incident triggered widespread protests, prompting the Kerala government to declare the tiger a ‘man-eater’ on Sunday and authorize its culling.
Discovery of the Tiger
The tiger was tracked by a special wildlife team and discovered lifeless behind a house in Pilakavu, a residential area, after sunrise on Monday. Officials believe the animal sustained fatal injuries in a territorial fight with another tiger as it retreated deeper into the forest during the intensified search.
“It is sad to confirm. The hair, dress, and earrings of the deceased woman were found during the examination of its intestines,” an official told PTI.
Post-Mortem Findings
Chief Wildlife Warden Pramod G. Krishnan stated that the tiger’s death was likely caused by fresh wounds on its neck, consistent with a fight with another big cat. The post-mortem was conducted by a panel of experts, with public representatives and police personnel present. Officials confirmed the tiger’s identity based on evidence found in its stomach.
Dr. Arun Zachariah, the chief veterinary surgeon leading the operation, noted both fresh and old wounds on the tiger’s body. He suggested the injuries were likely inflicted during a fierce territorial battle. Attempts to tranquilize the animal earlier were hindered by poor nighttime visibility, he added.
Minister’s Statement and Future Plans
Kerala Forest Minister A. K. Saseendran expressed relief over the tiger’s death, describing it as a significant outcome for residents of the high-range region, particularly Pancharakolli. He praised the efforts of the wildlife team in capturing the tiger under challenging conditions.
Despite the tiger’s demise, search operations will continue in Wayanad, with a focus on monitoring tiger presence in vulnerable areas. Measures such as solar fencing, clearing undergrowth, and installing 1,000 cameras are being implemented to enhance wildlife monitoring and safety.
The decision to extend search operations until Thursday divides the forest region into six zones for targeted efforts, the minister confirmed.
