How is a Leopard Eluding Capture After Killing Dogs in TN's Nilgiris?
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Synopsis
In the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, a leopard's spree of attacks on pet dogs has created panic among residents. Despite multiple attempts to trap the animal, it continues to evade capture, raising concerns about safety and wildlife interactions in urban areas. Will the forest department succeed in bringing this elusive predator to heel before more pets are lost?
Key Takeaways
- Leopard attacks on pets are rising in Nilgiris.
- Local authorities are struggling to capture the elusive predator.
- Residents are urged to take precautions to ensure safety.
- Human-wildlife conflicts are increasing due to urban expansion.
- Deforestation and habitat changes are pushing wildlife closer to human settlements.
Chennai, Oct 9 (NationPress) Despite numerous efforts by the Tamil Nadu forest department to capture a leopard responsible for the deaths of at least three pet dogs within the last week, the elusive feline continues to dodge traps in the Nilgiris district.
This cunning predator has been roaming around residential areas near Ooty, causing widespread alarm among residents and leading wildlife officials to issue new safety warnings.
Initially, the Nilgiris forest division set up a cage and camera traps at Glenrock after two pet dogs were attacked within days. However, the leopard later relocated to Vandisolai, where it claimed another dog, prompting forest personnel to move the cage and place two additional camera traps on Tuesday.
A live goat has been secured inside the trap to attract the animal. Officials noted that pet dogs, often left to rest within the premises of homes, are the primary targets, while stray dogs seem to have evaded the attacks.
“The leopard kills pet dogs approximately every three days. We believe it consumes one dog over a span of two days before seeking another. Consequently, private school authorities have been advised to ensure that students travel in groups rather than alone after school hours,” stated an official from the Nilgiris forest division.
Forest officials have also issued warnings to residents and tourists in Glenrock, Gardenmand, and Pudumand to refrain from going out at night. “Residents have been instructed to keep domestic animals indoors after dark and to maintain well-lit surroundings,” the official added.
Incidents of leopards encroaching on human habitats are not unprecedented in the Nilgiris. In 2020, a seven-year-old boy lost his life to a leopard near Pandalur, and in 2018, a three-year-old girl was killed during a leopard attack at Anaikatty. Numerous similar encounters have been reported near Gudalur and Coonoor in recent years, emphasizing the increasing intersection of human habitation and wildlife corridors. Experts suggest that deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and food shortages are driving leopards closer to villages.
The forest department has ramped up patrols and encouraged residents to report any leopard sightings immediately. As the search persists, local residents remain on edge, hoping the big cat will be captured soon to prevent further tragedies.
Point of View
The ongoing situation in Nilgiris highlights the delicate balance between wildlife conservation and human safety. As urban areas expand into natural habitats, incidents like these are likely to increase. It is crucial for wildlife authorities to adopt effective strategies that not only protect residents but also ensure the safety of wildlife. Our focus should be on sustainable coexistence.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the leopard to attack pet dogs?
The leopard is likely driven by food scarcity and is targeting pet dogs that are usually left outside at night.
What measures are being taken to capture the leopard?
The Tamil Nadu forest department has set up traps and cameras, relocated cages, and is actively patrolling the area.
How can residents stay safe during this situation?
Residents are advised to keep domestic animals indoors after dark and to avoid venturing out at night.
