Meet the Majestic Tigers of Pench
In the heart of Pench’s emerald wilderness, legends walk on silent paws.
These Royal Residents of Pench have turned the forest into their kingdom and the world into their audience. They are more than just apex predators – they are rulers, warriors, and nurturing queens whose tales echo through the forest. Each one has shaped Pench’s history, leaving behind pawprints in the mud and in the hearts of all who’ve seen them. Let us journey into the wild and meet the true icons of Pench.
🐯 1. The legendary tigress of Pench – Collarwali (T-15)
Born in 2005, is the super mom of Pench Tiger Reserve. She is the daughter of Tigress Badi Mada (Big Mother), a celebrated tigress, and dominant male T-1. The name earned as she is the first tigress in Pench to wear a radio collar in 2008. At times she was mistaken as a male because of her size compared to a normal female tigress. Collarwali made history in wildlife by giving birth to 29 cubs across 8 litters, with around 25 cubs surviving to adulthood. Collarwali’s significant contribution led to the success of tourism in Pench National Park.
👑 2. Badi Mada – The Mother of All Mothers
The one who laid the foundation of the tiger dynasty in Pench is none other than Badi Mada (Big Mother). She was the star of the BBC documentary: “Tiger, Spy in the Jungle”, which featured her life and her first litter with four cubs, all raised to adulthood. Her contribution is notable in India’s tiger conservation project.
🌊 3. Baghin Nala – The Shy Powerhouse
Sister of Collarwali, she was known for asserting her dominance in the drainage channel. Baghin Nala was popular among visitors for her shy yet powerful presence. Unfortunately, she was found poisoned along with two of her cubs, which was a big loss.
🐾 4. Langdi Tigress (T-20)
Known for her evident limp on the front right leg, she is one of the most photographed tigresses of Pench. She gained popularity because of her frequent spotting, particularly near waterholes. Despite her challenging physical condition, she is dominant in her territory and has raised her cubs successfully to adulthood. The dominant male tiger L–Mark, recognized for the “L” shaped stripe on his face, is her offspring.
👩👧 5. Tigress Patdev (T-4)
Daughter of Collarwali, she has continued the legacy of her mother by bearing a large number of offspring. Often seen roaming with her cubs, she is one of the favorite tigresses among tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.
🦁 6. Rayakassa – The Territory King
One of the dominant male tigers of Pench National Park, he is also known as Sula for having a wine-glass-shaped mark on his belly. He was famous for acquiring a large territory, mostly spotted on the Maharashtra side of Pench. This tiger was one of the frequent mates of Tigress Collarwali. His offspring includes the male tiger Tarzan.
🌸 7. Durga – The Proud Matriarch
The proud mother of the two famous tigresses Baras and Bindu. Mostly seen in the Khursapar zone, she is known for her gentle yet powerful presence. She is the descendant of Baghin Nala Tigress.
There are many more famous and fierce tigers in Pench National Park having their own legacy and stories. Together, they are making Pench into a majestic tiger reserve and thereby helping the Tiger Conservation Project of India.
