In a proud moment for Odisha and India’s wildlife conservation efforts, a rare black tiger from Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Mayurbhanj district has made it to the cover of National Geographic’s October 2025 edition. The extraordinary photograph, captured by Indian wildlife photographer and molecular ecologist Prasenjeet Yadav, has garnered international acclaim for both its visual brilliance and its scientific significance. Featuring a melanistic Bengal tiger, the image celebrates one of nature’s rarest genetic marvels. Melanistic tigers, commonly known as black tigers, are rare variants of Bengal tigers distinguished by their prominent dark stripes and deep golden-black coats. These big cats are found almost exclusively in the Similipal Tiger Reserve of Odisha, making the region a global hotspot for this unique genetic trait.

According to the All Odisha Tiger Estimation (AOTE) 2023–24 report, Similipal Tiger Reserve currently shelters 27 tigers, including 13 black tigers and eight cubs. This makes STR the only known home of melanistic tigers in the world, emphasizing its critical role in biodiversity conservation. For Prasenjeet Yadav, this achievement marks a milestone in his career as a National Geographic photographer and explorer. His image of the majestic black tiger—known as T12—was the result of months of rigorous fieldwork, patience, and perseverance deep in the dense forests of Similipal. Capturing a black tiger in the wild is an exceptionally rare feat due to their elusive nature and the thick forest cover that conceals them.

“Photographing T12 was intense and humbling, with days and months of patience distilled into a single moment,” Prasenjeet shared. “Now to see that story on a National Geographic Magazine’s international cover is an honour and a reminder of why we document India’s extraordinary wild heart.” Prasenjeet, who holds a background in molecular ecology, left his research career to pursue science communication through photography. Through his initiative ‘Shoot for Science’, he uses his camera to bridge the gap between science and society, telling stories that highlight pressing ecological and environmental issues. His work spans subjects such as climate change in the Himalayas, the impact of wind energy on biodiversity, and species evolution in the Western Ghats.

Acknowledging the support of Odisha’s Forest Department, he praised their conservation efforts, saying, “Being out in the forests of Similipal as a National Geographic photographer and explorer has been a true privilege. I saw firsthand the Odisha Forest Department’s dedicated, on-ground management and the commitment of its officers to safeguarding the future of these majestic tigers.” The National Geographic cover not only shines a global spotlight on Odisha’s Similipal Tiger Reserve but also reinforces the importance of India’s wildlife conservation programs. It stands as a testament to the tireless efforts of forest officials, conservationists, and photographers who continue to bring India’s untamed wilderness to the world’s attention. With this remarkable feature, Prasenjeet Yadav joins a select group of Indian photographers whose work has graced the cover of the 135-year-old National Geographic Magazine, an honor cherished by every nature and wildlife photographer.