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January 19,2022

Andrew Campbell 

On the evening of January 15, India's most famous tigress, known as the Queen of Pench and Supermom for giving birth to 29 cubs in her lifetime, died of complications linked to old age at the Pench Tiger Reserve in central India. Indians have expressed their grief over the loss of Supermom tigress.

Collarwali was her Hindi name because she was the reserve's first feline to be radio-collared in 2008. She was born on September 22, 2005, according to officials. The big cat was more than 16 years old.

After appearing in the BBC Wildlife program Spy in the Jungle in 2008, she became one of India's most well-known tigers, attracting an influx of tourists to the park, many of whom inquired about Collarwali and her charismatic mother.

Collarwali, according to wildlife specialists, had a vital part in the Pench Tiger Reserve's tiger population, which is thought to number more over 130 big cats. India is home to around 75% of the world's tiger population, and its conservation efforts have been quite effective, with 2,967 tigers counted in a 2018 census.

The Reserve's Field Director Ashok Kumar Mishra said Collarwali was cremated in line with Hindu traditions on January 16 in an open field in the Pench Tiger Reserve. Some held garlands while others folded their hands to pay their homage to Collarwali. Flowers and prayers were offered by staff, naturalists, and local villagers.