In a coordinated operation, forest department personnel successfully rescued an injured male leopard, estimated to be between 4 and 5 years of age, from the Indira Nagar locality of Wagle Estate. This area falls within the buffer zone of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). The leopard was found with wounds on the pads of all four paws, along with a deep gash on its hind leg. Additionally, scars were observed on its body and tail. Forest officials believe these injuries were sustained in a fight with another wild animal.
Leopard Sightings and Rescue Operation
Residents of the area had been reporting leopard sightings over the past several days. On Saturday evening, forest staff and personnel of the State Security Corporation spotted the injured animal perched on a tree. Forest officials, accompanied by volunteers from wildlife organizations WWA and RAWW, visited the site and noted that the leopard's movements were severely impaired. Due to darkness, the rescue attempt was deferred overnight.
The team resumed the search at 6 am on Sunday and found the leopard lying in the undergrowth, approximately 70 to 80 meters from where it was spotted the previous night. Since the animal was too weak to be safely netted, SGNP veterinary officer Dr. Vinaya Jangle tranquillized it using a dart gun before the team moved in.
Treatment and Relocation
The leopard was given preliminary treatment on-site before being shifted to the leopard rescue center at SGNP. Its rescue brought considerable relief to residents of Indira Nagar, who had been on edge since the Saturday night sighting. The successful operation highlights the efficient coordination between forest officials, security personnel, and wildlife volunteers.
