August 2011. The Indian government has released the details of the 2010 assessment of tiger populations in India, as well as other predators and their prey. This study reports a countrywide increase of 20% in tiger numbers with an estimated number of 1706 (potentially 1520-1909).
Tiger numbers have increased in some key areas, but have declined elsewhere.
2006 - 1411 tigers
The 2006 estimate was 1411 (between 1165 - 1657) tigers. This country level assessment is carried out every four years, and is a collaborative initiative between the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Wildlife Institute of India (WII), tiger States and outside expertise.
Decline outside key areas
There is a decline of 12.6% in tiger occupancy from connecting habitats. This has happened in peripheral and dispersal areas having low densities outside tiger reserves and tiger source populations. The increase in tiger numbers is due to the fact that tiger populations in Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Karnataka have shown an increase in tiger density. The inclusion of Sunderbans, some portions of North East and parts of Maharashtra have also contributed to the increase.
Double sampling method
The methodology consisted of a double sampling approach - including an unprecedented 477,000 man days by forest staff, and 37,000 man days by professional biologists. A total effort of 81,409 trap nights yielded photo-captures of 635 unique tigers from a total camera trapped area of 11,192 km2 over 29 sites.
The report is not about tiger numbers alone and gives invaluable information on connectivity, corridors and habitats.
http://www.wildlifeextra.com/go/news/tigers-india011.html#cr
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