India's oldest tigress Mehak's DNA to be studied to understand her health secret

Wildlife Institute of India scientists are preparing to study Mahak's DNA and health history. The findings could reshape care guidelines for ageing tigers and other captive big cats.

In Short

• Mahak lives at Kota's Abheda Biological Park and remains notably active
• Captive tigers usually survive 16 to 18 years, making her age exceptional
• Researchers will examine her diet, vaccinations, healthcare and biological processes

India's oldest living tigress, Mahak, has turned 23, setting a new longevity record and prompting scientists to investigate the secret behind her remarkably long and healthy life.

Mahak is now the star attraction of the Abheda Biological Park in Kota, Rajasthan.

Her exceptional age is particularly significant because tigers in captivity generally live for around 16 to 18 years, while their lifespan in the wild can be even shorter due to hunting, territorial conflicts, injuries and other risks.

Now, scientists from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) are expected to conduct a detailed study to understand what has helped Mahak remain healthy despite her advanced age.

The research will examine her genetic makeup, DNA, biological processes, diet, vaccination history and overall healthcare. Scientists will particularly investigate whether Mahak possesses any unique genetic traits that may have protected her from age-related diseases and contributed to her extraordinary longevity.

Born on August 28, 2004, at Jaipur's Nahargarh Biological Park, Mahak has never lived in the wild. Yet, at 23, her teeth and claws remain strong and she continues to show signs of activity, making her an important subject for wildlife researchers.

Her sister, Rambha, who was born alongside her, died around six months ago.

Wildlife officials believe the findings from Mahak's case could have wider implications for the care of ageing big cats across India. A detailed understanding of her diet, medical treatment, vaccination schedule and stress-free environment could help develop new guidelines for managing elderly tigers in zoos and biological parks.

Researchers may also study the functioning of Mahak's organs, teeth and claws, with the findings potentially proving useful in the treatment and care of ageing lions and leopards as well. Her behaviour and relatively stress-free life could also offer insights into the mental wellbeing of captive wild animals.

Mahak's journey has taken her across Rajasthan. She was born at Nahargarh in 2004 and was first brought to Kota in 2012 before being sent back to Jaipur from the old zoo.

In March 2023, after the establishment of Abheda Biological Park, she was brought to Kota again along with tiger Nahar.

Before Mahak, the record for one of the longest-living captive tigresses in India was reportedly held by Swati of the Guwahati zoo, who lived to around 20 years before dying in 2017.

Mahak has now surpassed that milestone.

The Abheda Biological Park administration is also planning a documentary tracing her journey from her birth in Jaipur to becoming India's oldest living tigress. The documentary will be screened for visitors on LED displays at the park.

Kota Wildlife Department DFO Pramod Dhakad said discussions were underway with WII scientists, doctors and senior forest officials for DNA sampling and a detailed scientific study into the reasons behind Mahak's extraordinary longevity.

- Ends