Tiger census begins in North Bengal

Siliguri, Nov 23 (UNI) Forest officials have started the tiger census with renewed vigour in Neora Valley Sanctuary, spanning over 113 sq kms area in North Bengal.

The census, which began from November 20, will end on Novemeber 25. A total of 33 teams, comprising both government and NGO representatives, are conducting the survey.

''We are planning to put up special cameras to monitor the movement of the tigers,'' Sekhar Majumdar (Assistant Divisional Forest Officer-II), Jalpaiguri, said.

The team in North Bengal is being headed by S Patil, Chief Conservator of Forests and Wildlife, North Bengal.

Similar endeavours will follow from the middle of December to trace the number of tigers in Mahanada, Jaldapara and Boxer Tiger reserves in North Bengal, official sources said.

Tiger footprints, excreta and scratch marks will serve as indicators to conduct the census, the sources added.

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