Tiger Shot Dead in Self-Defence During Tranquilising in Kerala

A tense encounter unfolded in Vandiperiyar, Idukki, as forest officials shot dead a tiger in self-defence on Monday during a tranquilising operation.

The injured tiger, which had strayed into the Granby estate area and killed several domestic animals, including a dog, puppies, and a cow calf, had sparked alarm among residents over recent days.

The operation began in the morning when the over-10-year-old tiger, visibly weakened and limping from a leg injury, was spotted near a house in a tea estate. A senior wildlife official explained that the team fired a tranquiliser shot from just 15 meters away—a risky move necessitated by the animal’s proximity to human habitation. While the second dart hit its mark, the tiger suddenly turned aggressive, charging at the team. It shattered a staff member’s helmet and tore a shield before officials, left with no choice, opened fire to protect themselves.

“Our goal was to capture it alive,” the official told the media, lamenting the outcome. “We took immense risks, but when it attacked, we had to act.” TV visuals captured the dramatic moment: tranquiliser shots fired, followed by the tiger lunging at the team. The animal, later confirmed dead, was moved to Thekkady Wildlife Reserve for examination.

Efforts to tranquilise the tiger had intensified since Sunday, with sniffer dogs and drones deployed after initial attempts failed to locate it. The incident highlights the challenges of managing human-wildlife conflict in Kerala’s hilly regions, where aging or injured predators increasingly venture into populated areas. Local authorities had imposed prohibitory orders to ensure safety during the mission, underscoring the gravity of the situation.