Rajkot: Forest department teams have been attempting to capture blackbucks for nearly 45 days but have had little success due to the animal’s exceptional speed, shy nature, and high susceptibility to stress.
Specialized Capture Techniques
The department has deployed specialised capture techniques, including funnel-shaped enclosures known as “bomas”, and sought technical assistance from Vantara. Officials have erected long-netted corridors and regularly placed green fodder to attract the animals.
“The blackbucks enter through the wider opening of the boma and move towards a narrower section, after which handlers close the exit,” explained a forest official.
Continuous Efforts
To support the operation, fodder has been laid continuously for more than a month, temporary structures have been erected, and personnel have been deployed to ensure livestock owners do not remove the bait. However, officials said the blackbucks have largely avoided entering the capture zones despite these efforts.
