The confirmed presence of a tiger in the sanctuary marks a significant ecological achievement for the region.

Itanagar, May 9: In a remarkable conservation breakthrough for Arunachal Pradesh, the Daying Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary has recorded its first-ever camera trap image of a tiger, confirming the species' return to this protected area after nearly twenty years, according to official reports.

Throughout the past year, forest officials and sanctuary staff had noted indirect signs suggesting potential tiger activity.

To scientifically validate these observations, multiple rounds of systematic monitoring and camera trapping were conducted. Although previous attempts did not yield photographic proof, efforts intensified with renewed focus.

In the latest survey phase, supported by the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), strategically placed camera traps successfully captured images of a tiger, definitively confirming its presence in the area.

The surveys also documented the critically endangered Chinese pangolin and the elusive, endangered hispid hare, emphasizing the sanctuary's vital conservation importance.

“This is a profoundly proud and emotional moment for all involved with D Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary,” expressed Kempi Ete, the Divisional Forest Officer.

“The tiger's return after nearly two decades showcases the resilience of the ecosystem and the cumulative effects of ongoing conservation efforts. This achievement is a collective success for our forest officials, frontline staff, Eco-Development Committee members, and local community organizations. We are dedicated to enhancing protection measures and ensuring a secure habitat for this magnificent species,” Ete stated.

The confirmed sighting of a tiger in the sanctuary signifies a major ecological milestone for the region. As an apex predator, the tiger is a key indicator of ecosystem health and habitat integrity, highlighting the conservation value of the sanctuary's unique riverine and grassland ecosystems.

Rajkamal Goswami, who oversees biodiversity and bio-resource conservation initiatives in Arunachal Pradesh for ATREE, hailed the development as a reflection of years of committed conservation work.

“This historic photographic evidence of the tiger, along with other highly threatened mammals, underscores the long-standing conservation efforts of the D Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary staff since its establishment,” Goswami remarked.

“It also highlights the significance of recent collaborative conservation initiatives involving research institutions and local communities. We hope this rediscovery attracts much-needed conservation attention and support for scientific monitoring, enhanced protection measures, and sustained conservation actions in Arunachal Pradesh's only protected area where riparian grasslands serve as the primary habitat,” he added.