Introduction to Corbett National Park
Corbett National Park is one of the most popular national parks in India. It is located in the state of Uttarakhand and covers an area of 520 square kilometers. The park is named after Jim Corbett, a British hunter turned conservationist, who played a vital role in the establishment of the park in 1936. The park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The significance of protecting wildlife
Wildlife conservation is essential for maintaining ecological balance and preserving the natural heritage of a country. Many animal species face the threat of extinction due to human activities such as deforestation, poaching, and pollution. It is crucial to protect these animal species to ensure their survival and maintain the biodiversity of the planet.
What is the animal of focus in Corbett?
The animal of focus in Corbett National Park is the Bengal Tiger. It is the most iconic animal species in the park and is one of the most endangered animals in the world. The park is one of the few remaining places where the Bengal Tiger can be sighted in the wild.
The classification of the animal
The Bengal Tiger is a carnivore and belongs to the Felidae family. It is the national animal of India and is classified as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Brief history of the animal in the park
The Bengal Tiger has been present in Corbett National Park since its inception. However, due to poaching and habitat destruction, the tiger population in the park declined rapidly in the 20th century. In the 1970s, the park authorities initiated a conservation program to save the tiger population, which has been successful in increasing the number of tigers in the park.
Threats to the animal species
The Bengal Tiger faces numerous threats in the wild, including poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict. The demand for tiger parts in traditional Chinese medicine has resulted in the illegal killing of tigers for their bones, skin, and other body parts.
Protection measures in place
The park authorities have implemented several protection measures to safeguard the Bengal Tiger population in Corbett National Park. These include strict anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration programs, and community-based conservation initiatives. The park also has a network of trained forest guards who patrol the park to prevent poaching and monitor the tiger population.
The role of the government in conserving the species
The Indian government has played a vital role in conserving the Bengal Tiger population in the country. The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which prohibits the killing of tigers, has been instrumental in reducing poaching. The government has also established a network of protected areas, including national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, to provide a safe habitat for the tiger population.
The impact of conservation efforts
The conservation efforts in Corbett National Park have been successful in increasing the Bengal Tiger population in the park. The tiger population has increased from 128 in 2006 to 231 in 2019. The conservation efforts have also resulted in an increase in the number of other animal species in the park.
The future of the animal in Corbett National Park
The future of the Bengal Tiger in Corbett National Park depends on the continued conservation efforts of the park authorities and the government. It is essential to maintain the tiger population in the park to ensure the survival of the species and preserve the biodiversity of the region.
Conclusion: The importance of wildlife conservation
Corbett National Park is an excellent example of the success of wildlife conservation efforts in India. The park authorities and the government have taken significant steps to protect the Bengal Tiger population in the park. The conservation efforts have not only ensured the survival of the species but have also contributed to the ecological balance of the region. It is crucial to continue these efforts to protect other endangered animal species and preserve the natural heritage of the country.
References and further reading
- Corbett National Park. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved October 4, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corbett_National_Park
- Bengal Tiger. (n.d.). In World Wildlife Fund. Retrieved October 4, 2021, from
- India’s tigers: A success story. (2019, July 30). In World Wildlife Fund. Retrieved October 4, 2021, from