The Sundarbans’ Jharkhali Tiger Rehabilitation Centre mourns the loss of Sohini, one of its oldest residents. The 23-year-old tigress, who had spent much of her life under the centre’s care, succumbed to age-related complications on Wednesday, months after the death of her long-time companion, Sohan.
Forest department officials reported that Sohini became unusually lethargic on Wednesday afternoon and was immediately taken for treatment. Despite the team’s best efforts, doctors declared her dead, leaving the centre staff deeply saddened.
“The deceased tigress had been suffering from old age-related ailments for a long time. A few months ago, her companion Sohan also died due to old age. Ever since she was rescued from the Sundarbans, the Jharkhali centre had been her home,” said Nisha Goswami, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), South 24 Parganas.
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Sohini had battled cataracts for the past two years and experienced periodic health challenges. Her longevity, however, exceeded the typical lifespan of a Royal Bengal tiger, which averages 15–16 years, highlighting the care and dedication of the forest staff.
With Sohini’s passing, only two tigers, Sundar and another transferred from Alipore Zoo, remain at the centre. Officials confirmed that an autopsy would be conducted before the tigress is cremated.
The Jharkhali centre has witnessed multiple age-related tiger deaths recently. Notably, in August, a Royal Bengal tiger nicknamed ‘Maharaj’ was found dead near Bani Camp in the Sundarbans, with autopsy results confirming natural causes.
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