Noticing the considerable increase in the number of tigers in Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR), the Bihar government has initiated a move to develop a second tiger reserve in Kaimur forest.

According to officials, VTR covers 900 sq km and is home to 31 tigers as per latest census. Besides tigers, the reserve is home to species like leopards, bears, deer, foxes, jackals, wild dogs and many other animals. VTR is at a saturation point because of the increase in the animal population.

The initial decision to develop a second tiger reserve was made after pug marks were discovered in the area. The marks are being counted and a proposal will be sent to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

As per reports, the Kaimur forest area is spread across double the area of VTR and is surrounded by three states—Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.