"There is an old jungle saying in these parts. Of a tigress who stalks. Of a tigress who rules Ranthambore. Of a tigress whose majesty is assured as much by the gaze of millions she arrests with the distinctive ‘fish’ mask outlining her eyes, as the YouTube clips of her legendary exploits: her jaws choking a 14-foot crocodile lifeless here, her snarl warding off a predatory male in defence of her cubs there. The survival of the tigress, goes the old jungle saying, is the survival of the tiger." - Ninad Sheth
Tonights Natural World (9pm BBC2) is the story of Machli, the most famous tiger in the world. A natural fighter, but also a loyal, loving mother. She rules over Ranthambhore, the most spectacular tiger territory in India and is one of a powerful dynasty. She is now in the last season of her life and wildlife cameraman Colin Stafford-Johnson returns to find his old friend one last time. www.mikebirkhead.com
"The tigress Machali has long been under media spotlight and has gained tremendous attentions amidst the vast ranges of animal and tiger lovers. There could be many reasons behind her fame but the one and only thing that has captivated many attentions are her muscular and majestic look and her dominance at the whole Ranthambore jungle." www.ranthamborenationalpark.com
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| www.ranthamborenationalpark.com |
Machali made headlines around the world when she was filmed fighting with a 14 foot long crocodile - the first time that such an encounter had been recorded, and in 2009 she was given a 'lifetime achievement award' after it was estimated that she had earned $10 million a year by attracting tourists to India. At the old age of 14, and missing many of her teeth, Machali continues to retain her position as the most famous and photographed wild tiger in the world.
In 2009 wildlife photographer Dicky Singh captured these stunning images of a battle between Machali and a younger male.
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| Source: Mail Online |
