All-India Tiger Estimation begins at Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Erode

The first phase of the All-India Tiger Estimation-2026 (AITE-26) commenced in the Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary under the Erode Forest Division on Tuesday (January 6, 2026).

Ahead of the survey, Forest department staff were imparted training in wildlife enumeration methods. Following the training, the census work began in four forest ranges, Anthiyur, Bargur, Chennampatti and Thattakarai, all falling under the division.

More than 150 department staff have been deployed for the exercise. They have been divided into several teams to carry out the census across 52 forest patrol beats.

During the first three days, the census is being conducted using the line transect method, under which pugmarks, animal droppings, and direct sightings are recorded. Wildlife species such as tigers, leopards, gaur, elephants, and bears are being enumerated. Though the estimation primarily focuses on tiger reserves, forest divisions with the presence of co-predators and other carnivores are also being covered.

In the subsequent three days, large herbivores, including elephants, gaur and deer, will be enumerated. The survey also covers scavenging birds such as vultures, besides documenting tree species, grass varieties, weeds, shrubs and undergrowth in the forest areas.

The field-level survey is scheduled to conclude on January 12. The data collected on wildlife, herbivores, scavenging birds, and vegetation will be compiled and submitted to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) by January 31. The final report is expected to be released in 2027.