Maya - One of the queens of Tadoba

My very first trip to Tadoba Andheri Tiger Reserve was very exciting and fruitful with many unexpected experiences. I was surprised to see that tigers there were so bold, they were least bothered about the presence of humans.
The safari started at 6 AM. Like any other winter morning, it was very cold and misty.The sun was no where to be seen, after 45 minutes of driving, we spotted the tiger, resting and watching the grazing sambar deers. It was very far and we could just see the outline of the tiger's head. The tiger was at the other end of a road not meant for safaris, so we decided to wait.
After about 20 minutes the mist had cleared and visibility was better. On getting some warmth she stood, as she stood we could see the bright orange coat, the tiger walked towards the waterhole, as the tiger came close, the guide introduced her as "Maya"- a bold female tiger about 4 years old. She drank water for full 7 minutes taking a 5 second break in between. She then started to mark her territory.
she is a very good poser as well. Before disappearing into the bushes she sat down, looked in all directions as if she was posing for us!!