Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, and recently visitors were able to capture a rare moment of a tigress and her three cubs dining on the carcass of a crocodile they had ambushed and killed. The pictures taken at the park show the feline family lying on the banks of a pond as they take turns feasting on the spoils of their successful hunt.
The mother, a 6-year-old Bengal tigress named Riddhi, has previously attempted to hunt crocodiles but this was her first documented success. Her victory solidified her status as the reigning queen of Ranthambore, taking over from her grandmother Machli who was known as the park’s resident “crocodile killer” until her death in 2016. Visitors who witnessed Machli slay a 14-foot-long crocodile remember her legendary battle.
Tigers typically do not go after crocodiles as prey but may take the opportunity if one is near the water’s edge where they are more vulnerable. Tigers prefer to hunt prey such as pigs, deer, elephant calves, and leopards on land. Riddhi and her three cubs, born in spring 2023, appeared unscathed from the crocodile hunt, demonstrating that this skill may be in their bloodline.
These powerful predators can consume more than 80 pounds of meat in one sitting and are known for their swimming abilities. The tigress and her cubs at Ranthambore National Park displayed their hunting prowess as they feasted on the crocodile carcass, showcasing their strength and dominance in the wild.
