Unique Hunting Style Tigers of Ranthambhore

One of the key forms of recreation for the Maharajas, Nobles and British rulers was hunting wild animals and large birds. This recreation was taking its toll especially on the tigers which where the most targeted species in India. With every shot fired their number decreased and to add to the woes snares of the poachers were painful and torturous.

The numbers in India ranged from one hundred thousand animals to a few less before persecution. The greater impact on the population of the big cats was degradation of the habitats and often complete denudation of prime forests and the ecosystem that prevailed. The desire to wear coats made of tiger skin was a trend all over the World. The need for parts like bone and skin in Chinese System of Medicine (TCM) was slowly taking its toll of big cats in India. This brought about a rapid decline not only in this country but all over the Globe wherever panthera was found..

Well the tigers all over India belong to the same race Panthera tigris tigris. They are also called Bengal Tiger since they were prolific in Sunderbans in West Bengal.

Hunted to near extinction the predators now survive only in one region that which lies near Sawai Madhopur township six hours drive from The Capital City Jaipur. The park is known as Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve and is home to many mammals, insects, birds and reptiles. But at this location the topography differs. The forest here are dry deciduous scrub, thorn, bamboo and mixed. The floral species differ a lot from many regions found in the country.

The dry deciduous forests offer a picturesque view from the top of an ancient fort. Down below is one of the many lakes of the reserve. It is here the the tigers have developed a unique ability to hunt in the waters of the lake. This has been filmed often by major wildlife film companies. The famous tigress Machli had mastered this hunting technique and eventually others have followed. The hunts at water bodies is a spectacle worth a sight.

On the shores of the lake are rows of dense grass which provides ground for ambush. It is here that the big cats lie in wait for the unsuspecting prey and rush at the right moment.

Whence success strike they are found in the middle of the waters with their prey. This is not that as easy as it appears, sometimes the fleet footed prey escape the clutches of the big cats. Often there is an internecine struggle with the massive mugger crocodiles that inhabit the lakes.

The dramatic hunting technique of the tigers has made this park famous. People from all over the globe visit Ranthambore Tiger Reserve in large numbers. The picturesque surroundings and ancient ruins heighten the experience of wildlife lovers. The destination excels as home of avian species some of which are colourful and spectacular.

The park is situated near the Capital City of Jaipur in the State of Rajasthan. The enchanting Ranthambore tiger safari is very popular recreation nowadays. Part of Golden Triangle visitors make a circuit tour of Agra, Jaipur and this amazing tiger reserve in India.