The Story of Collarwali: The Supermom Tigress of Pench National Park
Pench National Park is located in the heart of central India and is more than just a tiger reserve; it is like a living paradise for big cats. It is known for its rich biodiversity and thriving wildlife. When it comes down to making a list of Wildlife Destinations in India, Pench National Park definitely comes in among the top 5. It has dense teak forests and river landscapes. Despite that Pench is best remembered for one extraordinary tigress who has become legendary: Collarwali, affectionately called the “Supermom of Pench.”
Why Pench National Park is Called a Tiger Paradise
Pench National Park is spread across the border of the two states of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. It is considered to be a jewel of India’s conservation efforts. It was declared a Project Tiger Reserve in the year 1992. It has been playing a crucial role in protecting the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger since before that. The park has derived its name from the Pench River that flows through it. It is this river that helps the forest sustain its lush green forests, grasslands, and diverse wildlife.
Apart from its high tiger count, Pench is also home to many leopards, dholes, i.e. the wild dog species, sloth bears, jackals, and a variety of over 285 bird species—making it a complete wildlife destination.
Yet still, it is the thriving tiger population that truly sets Pench apart, and there is a reason for that, too.
Collarwali Tigress of Pench: Birth of a Legend
The story of Pench’s rise as a tiger paradise is inseparable from Collarwali, a tigress that was born in 2005 to the famous tigress Barimada. She became quite famous when researchers fitted her with a radio collar for wildlife monitoring, hence earning her the name Collarwali. The device was eventually removed, but the name Collarwali stayed forever.
She quickly established her dominance and became the star of Pench. She was admired by tourists, naturalists, and forest guards alike.
Record-Breaking Motherhood: 26 Cubs of Collarwali Tigress
Collarwali became truly legendary because of her unmatched role as a mother. She had given birth to a total of 26 cubs in 8 litters across her lifetime. This is considered to be a record in the wild tiger population.
Generally speaking, tiger cub mortality is quite high. But Collarwali’s extraordinary success in birthing 26 cubs helped her earn the nickname “Supermom of Pench.” Only a few tigers in history have been this successful. Even the iconic Machli of Ranthambore couldn’t match Collarwali’s contribution to tiger conservation.
How Collarwali Shaped the Tiger Population of Pench National Park
Collarwali’s cubs have gone on to thrive and establish territories across all of Pench and beyond. Today, many tigers that can be spotted on safaris in Pench are her direct descendants.
Her success has directly influenced the tiger population growth in the park, which has made Pench one of the best places for tiger sightings in India. For wildlife lovers, spotting a tiger in Pench often means witnessing the living legacy of Collarwali herself.
Collarwali in Wildlife Documentaries and Tourist Spotlight
Collarwali’s fame was not confined to the forests. She became an international icon after featuring in the BBC documentary “Tiger: Spy in the Jungle,” narrated by Sir David Attenborough.
Tourists from across the globe flocked to Pench, hoping to see the legendary tigress in person. Her story helped transform Pench into a leading eco-tourism hub, bringing local communities into the conservation journey.
The Legacy of Collarwali Tigress After Her Passing
In January 2022, Collarwali passed away at the age of 16, after living a full and remarkable life. Her death was mourned not just by Pench, but by wildlife enthusiasts across India and the world.
Yet, her spirit lives on through her cubs and the conservation awareness she inspired. To this day, she remains the heart and soul of Pench’s identity as a tiger paradise.
Future of Tigers in Pench National Park
Thanks to Collarwali’s contribution, Pench enjoys a strong tiger population. However, challenges such as habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching continue to threaten the species.
Conservation projects, responsible tourism, and eco-friendly safaris are crucial in ensuring Pench remains a haven for big cats. Visitors can contribute by choosing ethical safari operators and supporting local communities who coexist with wildlife.
Pench National Park – A True Tiger Paradise of India
The story of Pench is the story of Collarwali tigress, whose extraordinary motherhood changed the future of India’s tigers. She raised 26 cubs, strengthened the tiger population, and put Pench on the global wildlife map.
For anyone planning a tiger safari in India, Pench is not just another stop—it’s a journey into the legacy of a tigress who became a legend. Truly, Pench National Park deserves its title as a Tiger Paradise of India.
