The erstwhile Queen of Ranthambhore - Machali

[Vijay Rajan]

I'm back from yet another trip to Ranthambhore but can't wait to go back again in 4 weeks time !

The erstwhile Queen of Ranthambhore - Machali a.k.a T-16, shot on 13/04/2013 evening @ Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve.

She might have lost all her Canines but her steely resolve to carry on the legacy remains unmatched. She seems to be doing quite well and even manages to successfully hunt fully grown Sambhar / Chitals / Wild Boars these days. Unlike the last couple of years, she even seems to have discarded her cautious / shy nature ever since she was confined to a tiny territory (Bhoot Khurra & baba-ke-gufa area) and seems to relish coming out into the open more often these days. I also sighted her rolling on her back, squatting in a submissive position and also roaring (mating call perhaps) to lure the dominant male T-25. Talk of age catching up with her ! I've got to consider myself truly blessed to have been a part of a spellbound audience. Long live the Queen !

Canon 7 D + Canon 100-400 mm IS
370 mm
f/5.6
-1/3
1/400
ISO 320
20% crop from left of the frame for compo.
Had a tough time in PP since it was shot in AWB while the subject was resting in shade.

Look forward to your C & C please.