Nilgiris tiger declared man-eater after two fatal attacks

A tiger in the Nilgiris has been officially declared a man-eater after it killed two people in the Lauriston area within a fortnight. Four specialised teams, including two on the ground and two using drones, are tracking the animal. Forest officials said the primary aim is to tranquilise and capture the tiger, but personnel have been authorised to shoot if it charges and poses an immediate threat to life.

Camera-trap images have been obtained, but officials have not yet determined whether the tiger is injured or ill. A reliable health assessment will only be possible after capture and examination by a veterinarian. Once caught, the tiger may be moved to the Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Vandalur or the Wildlife Transit and Treatment Centre at Pethikuttai in Sirumugai, subject to approval from Chief Wildlife Warden Rakesh Kumar Dogra.

Estate management has been asked to suspend work in areas where tiger movement has been detected. Residents have been urged to exercise extreme caution, remain indoors after dark, and avoid plantations and forested areas until the animal is captured. The search and heightened surveillance across Lauriston and surrounding areas continue.