Factors contributing to tiger losses in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, India

ABSTRACT Increasing habitat loss and fragmentation as a result of anthropogenic influences have been implicated as a major cause in declining wildlife populations. To mitigate the anthropogenic impacts, many countries have developed large reserves to protect important habitats. However, for large carnivores, such as the Bengal tiger ( Panthera tigris tigris ), reserves may not mitigate human‐caused mortality. We monitored a tiger population using cameras and intensive searches from 2005 to 2013 to evaluate the factors causing losses of tigers in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, western India. The tiger population in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve is an important source population and genetic pool in the western‐most distribution of tigers in India. Fourteen tigers died during the study period: 5 from human‐induced caused and 9 from other causes (natural, depredation hunts, and dispersal). We could not determine the fate of an additional 8 tigers. Continuous monitoring of tiger populations is required, to monitor the factors causing mortality and losses of individuals. Our results offer baseline information on tiger losses in the landscape, which can be used to assist future management and conservation strategies for tigers. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.