Udupi: In a coordinated effort, forest department officials and veterinarians successfully rescued a four-year-old female leopard that was trapped in a protective wire fence near Asodu in Kundapur. The leopard had strayed into the backyard of a poultry farm and became entangled in a fence erected by the owner to prevent further loss of chickens.
Rescue Operation
Upon receiving information, forest officials rushed to the spot and sought assistance from the police. A veterinary team, including Dr Yashaswi Naravi of the CARE Wildlife Wing, Dr Meghana Pemmaiah, rescuers Rahul J and Mayur G, Dr Vineeta, and Akshay N Shet, founder of Uchhu Trust (Udupi Snake in the City), was mobilised. Dr Meghana darted and sedated the leopard, allowing the team to safely extricate the animal from the fence. After administering necessary treatment, the leopard was released back into its natural habitat.
Authorities Involved
The operation was led by RFO Raghavendra Naik and monitored by DCF Ruthren. Dr Yashaswi praised the responsible behaviour of the local community, stating, "Unlike in many such situations where panic escalates, people here acted responsibly. The police managed the crowd effectively, ensuring minimal stress to the animal during the rescue."
