In a moment of immense pride for India and its wildlife community, a breathtaking photograph of the elusive black tiger from Odisha’s Similipal National Park has been featured on the October 2025 cover of National Geographic magazine. This marks a milestone for Indian wildlife photography and global conservation awareness.
The man behind this extraordinary shot is Prasenjeet Yadav, an acclaimed Indian wildlife photographer and National Geographic Explorer. His image captures the black tiger — also known as the pseudo-melanistic tiger — in its natural habitat, showcasing its striking dark stripes and rare beauty.
Why This Tiger is Special
Black tigers are incredibly rare. Similipal National Park in Odisha is believed to be the only place on Earth where these tigers can be found. Their unique genetic patterning produces a darker coat, making sightings exceptionally rare and photos almost impossible.
A Proud Moment for India
Social media is buzzing with excitement as wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and Indians at large celebrate the global recognition. National Geographic’s feature is expected to raise international awareness about the park, the species, and the conservation challenges faced by tigers in India.
Meet Prasenjeet Yadav – The Man Behind the Lens
Prasenjeet Yadav’s passion for science-led photography has already earned him a global reputation. By capturing this once-in-a-lifetime image, he not only showcased India’s wildlife diversity but also highlighted the urgent need to protect it. His work connects art, conservation, and science — bringing hidden wonders of India’s forests to the world stage.
Conservation Spotlight
Experts believe this National Geographic cover could help bring renewed focus to tiger conservation programs, anti-poaching efforts, and habitat preservation in Odisha. With fewer black tigers in the wild, each documented sighting contributes significantly to research and awareness.
India’s Wildlife, Global Stage
This achievement is more than just a cover photo — it’s a moment of national pride and a reminder of India’s unparalleled biodiversity. As the world looks at National Geographic’s October issue, the black tiger of Similipal stands as a symbol of mystery, resilience, and hope.
