Leopard Enclosure, Bannerghatta National Park, Bangalore '03/04.

This picture was taken on one of my visits as a volunteer of PfA. . .

I recall some very disappointing moments at the park when I volunteered, such as public non-cooperation in keeping the park clean, apathy of park authorities towards management and maintenance, etc. I remember this one particular incident which happened on my (last) morning safari towards the end of my volunteership, wherein, the guide threw water from a bottle he was holding near a resting tiger to distract it for my photography. . . ! The tiger shocked and traumatized sprung up from its resting position and jolted to a distance. In shock, horror and despair myself I could do little but flare back at the guide. . .

I waited to report the incident to the DCF (District Conservator of Forests), but in futile attempts as he wasn't available that am and that remained my last visit to the national park. I did notice though (as I recall a little better now with this) that a couple of the tourists were disapproving and non-participative of "distracting" the tigers and lions of the safari for "tourism purposes". However, I'm unable to remember accurately if this was the same day or another. Was still good to have witnessed eco-consciousness and sensitivities while it happened rather than the much shocking apathy and irresponsible and unyeilding behaviour. I don't know how much my "telling off" helped change the guide's perspective on wildlife, but it only confirmed that the management and the forest services need some serious revision along with rigorous training and education and stringent law enforcement within the state and the country!

The national park overall seemed to be drier than optimum levels, when enquired on one of my earlier visits as a volunteer, the DCF informed me that the area was suffering from lack of water supply. . .