Felids Interactions - Intraspecific Conflicts

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(03-01-2019, 02:21 PM)Rage2277 Wrote:

*This image is copyright of its original author

 

*This image is copyright of its original author

mihirwildmahajan
 Mother’s love and nature’s calling | A record image made on Cybershot. A powerful memory nonetheless | Tadoba | Winter 2018-19.

While Chota Matka, the amorous three year-old male tiger entered Maya’s domain and finally the sanctum sanctorum, Pandharpauni, there was palpable tension in the air. Male tigers can be ruthless killers on their way to dominance and Maya, the experienced matriarch that she is, knew about the great perils that lay ahead! As she sensed the male’s presence in Pandharpauni, the cubs were safely hidden in one of her secret spots behind P2 and she came back to defend, to fight, to make a point! It was a full blown fight that ensued and lasted around 30 seconds (which can be potentially fatal in the tiger world), something that i had witnessed all but thrice in these years! The ground shook, the trees trembled and the scores of deer and langur that inhabit Pandharpauni all year round ran into oblivion. It was a moment of great proportions for us to see a 150 kg mother fight a 230 kg male tiger in his prime! She fought so valiantly that the male had to concede defeat that morning! We breathed a sigh of relief, the deer came back hesitantly and peace reigned once again in the hallowed battleground of Pandharpauni. My love and respect for Maya grew even more that morning! This is for you guys, @andrewff_892 @rchaparro77 @susibol78and thank you Roser! (How to differentiate between a play fight and a fight meant to kill: Look at the claws! They are otherwise safely enclosed in the sheath and released only during the most special of occasions.)

Photos are so much more interesting when there is also text telling what happened! Nice photo and interesting occasion. Reply