Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): In a bid to boost Indian Bison population at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, 50 Indian bison will be translocated from Satpura Tiger Reserve in two phases. The first phase, involving relocation of 25 Bison, will take place soon, with the second phase to follow shortly after. This translocation is expected to be completed before the end of this month. Currently, Bandhavgarh is home to around 160 Indian bison, and the addition of 50 more from Satpura will help further increase the population.

Anupam Sahay, Field Director of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, said that the primary purpose of this translocation is to ensure a healthy gene flow among the bison population. This measure will also safeguard the species in case of disease outbreaks, ensuring the animals’ protection. The translocation of Indian bison follows a precedent set in 2011-12 when around 60 Indian bison were brought from Kanha Tiger Reserve. Their population has since grown to about 160 in Bandhavgarh.

Wildlife count ends today

The process to count wild animals, including both carnivores and herbivores, at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve will end on Saturday. The counting process, which began on February 2, aims to provide an updated estimate of the reserve's wildlife population.

Bandhavgarh is home to highest number of tigers compared to any other national park, with around 200 tigers currently residing in the reserve. Officials are optimistic that the new wildlife count will show an increase in numbers compared to the previous survey.