One of the most celebrated tigresses in Ranthambore National Park, Arrowhead, has sadly passed away, as confirmed by park officials. The cause of death was identified as a brain tumor.
Arrowhead, aged approximately 11 years, belonged to the famous fish family of the park. Recently, she gained attention when a video of her hunting a crocodile in a reservoir went viral.
Wildlife enthusiasts noted that Arrowhead's hunting prowess reminded them of her mother, Fish, who was often referred to as the 'Queen of Ranthambore' and known for her crocodile hunting skills.
On Thursday, both wildlife officials and admirers paid their last respects to Arrowhead before her cremation. Senior wildlife guide from Ranthambore, Shakir Ali, remarked that Arrowhead carried forward her mother Fish's legacy with both strength and spirit.
According to Anoop K.R., the field director of Ranthambore, Arrowhead was born in February 2014 and was frequently spotted in zones 2, 3, 4, and 5 of the park, particularly around Nalghati and Rajbagh Lake.
She was celebrated not only for her striking appearance but also for her significant contribution to the tiger population. Arrowhead became a mother four times, giving birth to ten cubs, six of whom are still alive. Her last litter was born in 2023.
It is noteworthy that her death occurred just days after her offspring, Kanakthi, was relocated by the forest department from the park. Members of the Ranthambore Nature Guide Association and other wildlife lovers paid tribute to Arrowhead. The association's president, Yadavendra Singh, stated that she would be remembered for her fierce nature and profound impact on the park's ecological heritage.