H1_W2_010

Date: Apr-10

Location: Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh.

Did you know?

Tigers are stealthy and highly skilled hunters, relying on their exceptional senses and physical prowess to secure their prey. They often use stalking as a primary hunting technique, where they move silently and patiently through dense vegetation, getting as close as possible to their intended target. Their distinctive striped coat provides excellent camouflage, allowing them to blend seamlessly into their surroundings and remain inconspicuous to their prey. Once within striking distance, tigers employ a lightning-fast ambush attack, utilising their powerful jaws and sharp claws to bring down their unsuspecting victim swiftly and efficiently.

About the picture

This image of a tigress stalking a deer was taken in Bandhavgarh National Park in April 2010. There were many Spotted deer and Wild boar grazing and foraging in the grassland. This tigress quietly moved to a secluded corner and was planning to hunt. We positioned ourselves in one spot and waited patiently in anticipation of a spectacular hunt. We had now been waiting for an hour and in all that time, the tigress did not move an inch! She was in the crouched-down position throughout, even allowing many deer and boar to walk right past her without even giving them a whiff of her presence. While wildlife photography requires tons of knowledge and patience, luck is equally important to be able to click a unique photo. We did not get to witness a hunt, but we did experience the patience and dedication of a tigress committed to the hunt. This was definitely a unique behavioural experience to see.

Fun Fact

Each tiger has its own scent due to individualised scent glands. This helps tigers recognise each other just by smell.