Another Tiger Hunt

You might think that after 2 attempts to see tigers in the wild that we might have given up. But oh no we are more determined than that!

However, a change of tactics was called for - this time we would hunt them from a boat. The Periyar nature reserve is blessed with an enormous lake courtesy of a dam built many years ago by the British to supply water to the Western Ghats. Many species of wild animals, including tigers use the lake as their source of drinking water and were reportedly relatively easy to spot around dusk. There were 2 options, a two and a half hour trek into the bush with local guides or a one and a half hour boat ride on the lake. Casting an eye over our traveling companions we calculated that most of them could probably run faster than us and, being mindful of the fate of the poor German tourist mentioned a few blogs ago, we chose the lake cruise.

This was a different landscape from the previous reserves. This time, rather than having dense bush to peer into, there was dense jungle. Fortunately, the water level was low and there was a substantial space between the shore and the jungle where thirsty animals would be easily spotted. The lake side was incredibly beautiful (see pictures) and after having disappointed our nature guides by being unimpressed with cormorants we began to see some proper wildlife. Two otters swam around the boat giving ample photo opportunities. My best effort was an otters backside up in the air as it dived. However, the ever present sambar dear were soon in evidence in substantial numbers. At the furthest point into our voyage we were fortunate to spot a family of Indian Bison or Gaur, a huge and fairly dangerous beast. There was a calf with the group which dutifully jumped up (jamp for the Invernessians) and ran after its mother as the boat approached.

However, still no elephant or tiger. Clearly, there was lots of tiger food around so why weren't they chasing it for the benefit of the passing tourist trade. As the jetty came into view and hopes began to fade, at last a sighting of wild elephants. First a family group of three - mum, dad and little baby elephant then, further on, a group of four this time with an unruly adolescent in tow. The boat slowed and approached as close as possible without scaring them off. This time I got a couple of decent pictures.

Later that day we did see a tiger. It was sent in a picture by Michael who was visiting Highland Wildlife Park with Nicola and little Megan. Ho hum!