Mangaluru: A leopard that had been roaming the outskirts of Mangaluru has now entered city limits, sparking concern among local residents. On Monday night, its movement near Doctors Lane in Kadri was captured on CCTV cameras, prompting immediate action by the Karnataka Forest Department. Notably, the area had witnessed a wild bison sighting two years ago.
Forest Department Initiates Capture Operation
The forest department has launched an active operation to capture the leopard. Officials have placed a cage behind the Nagabana in front of 7th Cross, Kaibattalu, and set up an enclosure with two hens as bait. Field staff have been divided into three teams to monitor and safely capture the animal.
Authorities highlighted that the leopard typically moves at night rather than during the day. “We have coordinated measures to trap it while it is active at night,” said a senior forest official.
Breeding Season Heightens Movement, Public Advised Caution
Officials noted that the breeding season for leopards, from November to February, leads to increased nocturnal movement. Leopards entering human settlements rarely remain in one place and may settle where food sources are easily available, such as poultry waste or stray dogs. Residents have been strongly advised not to dispose of meat waste indiscriminately to prevent attracting wild animals.
Areas of Frequent Leopard Sightings
Leopard activity is commonly reported in Neermarga, Bajpe, and Edapadavu. Officials indicated that the animal may have entered Mangaluru city in search of food from these regions. A leopard can travel 15–20 km in a single night, they noted, urging citizens not to panic but remain vigilant.
“Residents should avoid approaching the animal and report any sightings to the forest department immediately,” the official added.
The forest department continues to monitor the situation closely, prioritising public safety and the safe capture of the leopard.
