Abandoned Cub Sparks Swift Rescue Operation
In a heartening wildlife rescue, forest field staff in Coimbatore successfully saved a black leopard cub on Wednesday morning. The young animal was discovered on the premises of a house located in the Leprosy Colony at the foothills of Maruthamalai.
Alert local residents were the first to spot the cub, which appeared to have been abandoned by its mother near the residential area. They promptly informed the forest authorities, triggering an immediate response.
Swift Action by Forest Department
A team from the Coimbatore forest range quickly reached the spot. The field staff carefully secured the leopard cub and shifted it to a protective cage to ensure its safety. District Forest Officer N Jayaraj emphasized that their primary goal was to minimize human interaction around the cub.
"Our priority is to reunite the cub with its mother safely," stated Jayaraj. He noted that the house from which the cub was rescued is situated close to the reserve forest, raising hopes for a successful reunion. The department is closely monitoring the situation.
Health Check and Search for the Mother
Coimbatore Forest Range Officer V Thirumurugan provided further details. A veterinarian examined the leopard cub and declared its health to be satisfactory. This positive assessment is crucial for the next steps.
Officials believe the cub's mother is likely in the nearby forest area. "We are making every effort to reunite the cub with its mother," Thirumurugan affirmed. A separate team is actively tracking the whereabouts of the mother leopard.
Another forest officer added context, revealing that a female black leopard has been observed roaming the Coimbatore forest range for an extended period. "This might be her cub," the officer suggested. The cub is currently kept in a cage near the forest office, awaiting the tracing of its mother.
The entire operation underscores the delicate balance between human settlements and wildlife habitats in regions like Coimbatore. The forest department's coordinated efforts highlight a commitment to compassionate wildlife management and conservation.
