Legendary Bengal Tiger 'Arrowhead's Last Moments
A video capturing the final moments of the legendary wild Bengal tiger 'Arrowhead' has been released, stirring sadness among animal lovers worldwide.
The last steps of this tiger, who recently passed away, have become an emotional record showcasing the resilience of life and the cycle of nature.
According to a report by the BBC on the 25th, wildlife photographer Sachin Rai shared a video and photos revealing the last moments of Arrowhead, who lived in the Ranthambore National Park, on Instagram. Filmed on the 17th, the video shows Arrowhead, in a skeletal state, struggling to walk around the banks of the wetland where it usually roamed, heart-wrenching viewers.
Arrowhead's image trudging around the banks of the wetland in a skeletal state.
Dignity of the Wild Despite Battling Illness
After battling bone cancer and a brain tumor for nearly two years, Arrowhead was in an extremely weakened condition, but still retained the elegance of a wild predator.
In the video, despite repeatedly falling after taking a few steps, Arrowhead managed to laboriously move to a tree it used to frequent, where it took a long rest, Rai reported.
Sachin Rai(@sachin_rai_photography)'s shared post
Sachin Rai(@sachin_rai_photography)'s shared post
Subsequently, Arrowhead entered an area it once dominated, now occupied by its daughter, Ridi.
Ultimately, on the 19th, Arrowhead's official death was confirmed. Sachin Rai reflected, “I have been watching Arrowhead since it was a cub. It was heartbreaking to see a powerful tiger that once ruled the national park in such a weakened state.”
Arrowhead as a Symbol of Bengal Tiger Conservation
Officially designated as T-84, it became widely known by the nickname 'Arrowhead' due to its unique markings resembling a pointed arrow on its cheek.
Arrowhead is known as the granddaughter of the famous tiger 'Machli,' who was captured hunting a massive marsh crocodile, and was once a powerful predator that ruled the entire Ranthambore National Park.
However, as Ridi grew, Arrowhead lost most of its territory and has been surviving on the fringes.
Even after its health declined, Arrowhead regained some reputation by specializing in hunting crocodiles.
Rai reminisced, “I still vividly remember the scene of Arrowhead leaping at a crocodile and tearing the thick skin with its teeth.”
As Arrowhead's health further deteriorated, the national park administration began providing food, but this was halted after one of Arrowhead's cubs attacked a human.
Image source: Bengal tiger battling illness / Sachin Rai Instagram
