GPS-Collared Sloth Bear Captured After 50km Trek to Shivamogga Airport
In a remarkable wildlife incident, state forest department officials successfully captured an eight-year-old female sloth bear on Monday after it traveled nearly 50 kilometers in just 24 hours. The bear's journey took it through residential neighborhoods before it ultimately entered the premises of Shivamogga's Rashtrakavi Kuvempu Airport at Sogane village.
Bear's Long Journey Back to Human Habitation
According to sources, this GPS-collared animal had been translocated to the Bhadra wildlife division on March 27 after initially being captured near the JSW factory in Toranagallu, Vijayanagara district. Surprisingly, the bear broke free and began a long trek back toward human habitation, covering significant distance in a short period.
Before reaching the airport compound, residents in Vinayaka Nagar and Jyoti Nagar spotted the bear wandering through gardens and private properties. Many captured videos of the animal moving through these areas, which triggered concern among locals, though fortunately the bear caused no harm during its travels.
Recent Translocation and Airport Incident
The animal had been recently translocated to Bhadra wildlife division following its capture in Vijayanagara district, though officials declined to confirm its exact origin. As forest department personnel from Umblebailu and Lakkavalli ranges attempted to track the bear, it reportedly leaped over the airport's perimeter wall and took refuge in dense vegetation along the compound's edge.
A veterinarian eventually tranquilized the bear in the presence of DCF (Bhadravathi division) BM Ravindra Kumar and Bhadra Tiger Reserve director Pulkit Meena. The successful operation prevented any potential danger to airport operations or nearby residents.
Current Condition and Observation
The captured bear was subsequently moved to an observation cell at Shivamogga Zoo, where it was reported to be in stable condition. Forest department officials are monitoring the animal closely as they determine next steps for its care and potential relocation.
This incident highlights the challenges wildlife officials face when managing animals that have become accustomed to human environments, particularly when they undertake unexpected long-distance movements that bring them into contact with populated areas and critical infrastructure like airports.
