Rare melanistic tiger skin seizure exposes poaching gaps in similipal reserve

In a significant wildlife crime bust, the Odisha forest department has arrested nine individuals and seized the rare skin of a melanistic (black) tiger linked to poaching in Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), officials said on Monday. Acting on a tip‑off, a special enforcement team from the Baripada Forest Division raided Kuliana village in Mayurbhanj on Sunday and recovered the valuable tiger skin from two suspects. Interrogation of these individuals led to the arrest of another seven people , Baripada Divisional Forest Officer Govind Chandra Biswal confirmed at a press briefing .

Forest officials believe the three‑year‑old melanistic tiger was killed inside the STR about two months ago , despite stepped‑up protection efforts in the reserve known for its unique tiger population. The melanic variant, also called a pseudo‑melanistic Royal Bengal tiger , results from a rare genetic mutation that produces very dense dark stripes over the coat, making them appear almost black. Similipal Tiger Reserve is the only wild habitat in the world where these melanistic tigers occur in noteworthy numbers.

The operation began when forest officials detained two men attempting to finalise a sale of the tiger skin , triggering deeper probes that uncovered a wider trafficking network. “Those responsible for this heinous act will not be spared,” the DFO said, underlining ongoing efforts to trace the main accused and additional suspects .

This incident has intensified concerns about enforcement and surveillance within the reserve, which receives significant funding for conservation and anti‑poaching measures. Critics point to persistent gaps in protection despite advanced technologies and resource allocations, arguing that poaching continues to threaten the already fragile tiger population .

This seizure marks at least the second instance in recent years where a melanistic tiger skin has been recovered from areas around Similipal, highlighting recurring threats to this globally rare wildlife variant.