The Forest Department has successfully rescued Bhola, one of the most recognized male tigers in the Corbett landscape, after the big cat was found suffering from a serious leg injury. The tiger has been shifted to the Dhela Rescue Centre, where it is receiving treatment under the supervision of wildlife veterinarians.
According to Tarai West Forest Division Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) P. C. Arya, Bhola had been observed limping in the Phato Zone over the past several days. Patrolling teams regularly monitored the tiger after noticing signs of physical weakness and difficulty in movement. Continuous surveillance confirmed that the animal’s condition was deteriorating, prompting officials to prepare a rescue operation.
After obtaining the necessary approvals from senior forest authorities, a specialized rescue team was formed. The operation was carried out late on Thursday night, around 10 p.m., when the tiger was finally located in the Phato Zone.
The rescue was led by Dr. Dushyant Sharma, Senior Wildlife Veterinarian at Corbett National Park. He explained that the team had been tracking Bhola for several days, but the operation proved challenging as the tiger kept moving toward the Dhela forest area. Once the animal was located, veterinarians safely tranquilized and rescued it.
A preliminary medical examination revealed that Bhola had suffered a deep wound on one of its legs, with significant tissue loss in several places. Wildlife experts believe the injuries were likely sustained during a territorial fight with another male tiger. The injury severely affected the tiger’s ability to hunt, leaving it weak and undernourished.
Bhola is currently undergoing intensive treatment and continuous monitoring at the Dhela Rescue Centre. Veterinarians are closely assessing its recovery while providing the necessary medical care to improve its condition.
Forest officials have stated that the tiger will remain at the rescue facility until it fully recovers. Once veterinarians confirm that Bhola is fit to survive independently, the iconic tiger will be released back into its natural habitat within the Corbett landscape.
