When most people think of tiger habitats, dense forests and jungles often come to mind. While forests are undoubtedly crucial for tiger survival, grasslands play a significant role in supporting healthy tiger populations.
An essential hunting ground for tigers
Tigers are apex predators that rely heavily on large prey species and grasslands provide grazing habitats where species like deer, wild boar, and buffalo thrive. Tigers use tall grasses and shrubs as cover to stalk their prey allowing them to hunt more effectively. Grasslands also provide habitat for other wildlife species that are essential to the ecosystem, such as small mammals, birds, and reptiles. By maintaining grasslands, conservationists can ensure that entire ecosystems remain healthy.
Chital deer in grassland in Parsa National Park. ©ZSL Nepal
What is threatening grassland habitats in Nepal?
Historically, Nepal’s grasslands faced significant threats from agricultural expansion, overgrazing, and infrastructure development, which reduced natural habitats and degraded ecosystems. However, these issues are now being managed through habitat restoration efforts. The main ongoing challenge remains invasive plant species, which continue to outcompete native vegetation. Conservation initiatives are addressing these challenges to maintain healthy grasslands, crucial for supporting tigers and other wildlife.
ZSL Nepal – Before and after grassland management in Parsa National Park
Grassland Management in Parsa National Park
Since 2019, ZSL Nepal, supported by WildCats Conservation Alliance, has led impactful grassland management efforts in Parsa National Park based on habitat mapping and monitoring. These efforts include selective tree cutting, invasive plant species removal, and controlled burns to promote new grass growth across 52 hectares. Pre-management data is being used to monitor progress and scientific evidence continues to be gathered to document how effective grassland management is creating vital habitats and supporting a growing tiger population in Nepal.
ZSL Nepal Grassland management activities underway
By recognising the importance of grasslands and taking a landscape approach to conservation, ZSL Nepal is ensuring that tigers have access to the full spectrum of environments they need to survive.
Find out more about our work in Nepal here.
