Camera Trap Units for Tiger Census Stolen in Chikkamagaluru

Forest Department officials in the Mutthodi Range of Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, have reported the theft of two camera trap units essential for the ongoing tiger census. The incident occurred at the Kattehole section, where four cameras were initially installed to monitor tiger movements. Specifically, two cameras were placed at Jenusirigudda in Koolagame village, and two others in the deemed forest area of Kesavinamane village. Forest staff conducted daily inspections to ensure the equipment's security. However, during a routine check on May 5, 2026, personnel discovered that the two cameras at the Kesavinamane site were missing. An immediate search of the surrounding area failed to locate the stolen devices. Consequently, G.M. Basha, the Deputy Range Forest Officer (DRFO) of the Kattehole section, filed a formal complaint with the Mallandur police on May 8. Each stolen camera is valued at ₹20,000, resulting in a total financial loss of ₹40,000. This theft poses a significant setback to the conservation efforts and data collection required for the accurate estimation of the tiger population in the region.