Man-Eating Tiger Captured in Wayanad After Fatal Tribal Attack

Wayanad, Kerala – December 26, 2025 – Forest officials in Kerala’s Wayanad district have captured a 14-year-old male tiger linked to the fatal mauling of a 65-year-old tribal man earlier this month. Identified as WL-48 from the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, the tiger was trapped in the early hours at Hajiyar Kadavu, ending a tense search operation in the Vandikadavu forest region.

The forest department has captured the man-eater #tiger that killed a 65-year-old tribal man in #Wayanad, #Kerala, in the early hours of the day. The 14-year-old male tiger, identified as WL-48 of the wildlife sanctuary, was trapped at around 1:30 am at Hajiyar Kadavu in the… pic.twitter.com/5qYMqsiscn

— News9 (@News9Tweets) December 26, 2025

Details of the Attack

The attack occurred on December 20, when Maran alias Kooman, a respected tribal leader of the Devargadda Kattunayaka community, was collecting firewood near the Kannarampuzha river. The tiger attacked him, resulting in fatal injuries. His death sparked protests from local residents demanding immediate action against the predator.

Capture Operation

WL-48 had previously entered human settlements and preyed on livestock, heightening local concerns. Following the attack, the forest department deployed rapid response teams, camera traps, and baited cages to capture the animal. The tiger entered a trap at approximately 1:30 AM on December 26.

Footage from the operation shows forest officials securing the caged tiger and transporting it via tractor. Officials confirmed the tiger is suffering from serious health issues, including age-related ailments, making it unfit for release into the wild. Plans are underway to relocate WL-48 to a zoo or rehabilitation facility for further care.

Human-Wildlife Conflict in Wayanad

The incident underscores growing human-tiger conflicts in Wayanad, a biodiversity hotspot. Encroachment on forest land, habitat fragmentation, and climate-related pressures have increasingly pushed wildlife closer to villages, leading to repeated clashes.

Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran assured residents that enhanced patrolling and community awareness programs are being implemented to prevent future incidents. Locals continue to call for long-term solutions, including improved fencing and fair compensation for affected families.

Why This Matters

The capture of WL-48 protects local communities from further attacks while preserving endangered tiger populations. It highlights the delicate balance between wildlife conservation and rural safety in biodiversity-rich regions.

What Happens Next

Authorities will monitor WL-48’s health and arrange relocation to a suitable facility. Forest officials are expected to intensify patrolling, review habitat management, and expand community education initiatives to reduce future human-wildlife conflicts.

Key Takeaways

• A 14-year-old man-eater tiger, WL-48, was captured in Wayanad after killing a tribal leader.
• The tiger suffers from serious health issues, preventing release back into the wild.
• Human-tiger conflicts are rising in Wayanad due to habitat loss and forest encroachment.
• Authorities are implementing patrols and awareness programs to protect local communities.
• Relocation to a zoo or rehabilitation center is planned for the captured tiger.