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Periyar Tiger Reserve

The Periyar Tiger Reserve spreads over 777 sq.km. of tropical evergreen, semi- evergreen and moist deciduous forests. Its legal status as a National Park is still pending and only one notification has been issued. It was declared a Project Tiger Reserve in 1978 and the first research started in 1991. The results indicate 49 species of mammals, 246 species of birds, 28 species of reptiles, 8 species of amphibians, 22 species of fishes and 112 species of butterflies. The core area is 350 sq.kms. The final notification of the buffer area is pending.

In 1971 tiger estimates were 10 in number. Today 46 tigers are said to abound in this reserve. Elephant populations which were 588 in 1978 are said to have gone up to 980 in 1989 census. Reputed wildlife biologists have alleged that there are very few tuskers, and elephant poaching has to be considered as a threat but presently the Park director is of the opinion that this problem is under control.

Isolated Nilgiri Tahr populations have also been observed at three places and after many years, and this is a special highlight of this Park.

Through Project Tiger more funds have flowed and the staff increased but not only is the staff inadequate but lacking in motivation. To build the morale incentives to the staff are necessary. Roads, paths and more construction is suggested, for better protection.

Eco-development has just started and 60 ha. of degraded land has been restored, in the last couple of years assisting in the process of natural regeneration.

A special project is under formulation for the eco-development of the area.

Between November and January the Park attracts lakhs and lakhs of pilgrims to the Ayappan Temple. Heavy damage is done on timber, fuelwood, forest fires start and the wildlife is disturbed especially at water holes. After January, there is severe pollution due to litter, wastes and this creates the possibility of epidemic disease. The pollution is only lifted with the arrival of the monsoon. The area caters to over 3 lakh tourists besides the pilgrims. Alternative tourist sites need to be created to relieve the pressure and a government hotel in a very potential wildlife area requires relocation.

The debarking of the Cinnamomum tree is a frequent activity and the illicit transportation of the bark to Tamilnadu takes place. At this point people create forest fires to make their getaway. It is urgent that the Tamilnadu border be declared a sanctuary and be protected. Illegal grazing of cattle and fuelwood collection is a common feature on the fringes of the sanctuary.

For the future working of this tiger reserve with a sense of well being it is vital to motivate the staff. With a motivated staff some of the problems concerning the Park management will be resolved.

The reality of the census operations in this tiger reserve will have only some meaning after the National Tiger Census of 1993. At the moment taking the reference of the 1989 census, 46 tigers have a very limited prey base.

In any case since 1987 the tiger population has shown a stability when it was 45 to 1991 when it is 46.

The above figures and information require, recounts and further analysis. It was only in 1991 - 1992 that research and monitoring activities started in this reserve. The stress is towards monitoring wild animal populations and water holes. 60 kms. of transect lines have been laid for the monitoring of wild animals. This may help in understanding the limited prey base. A sense of dedication and commitment will ensure the future of this unique tiger habitat, and the field staff requires our support and viable and effective inputs.