A leopardess was killed after being struck by a motorcycle near the Sakrebailu Elephant Camp on the outskirts of Shivamogga on Friday afternoon. The incident has sparked fresh concerns over wildlife safety in animal corridors and reckless driving on highways.
Details of the Incident
The sub-adult leopardess was allegedly hit by a high-end racing bike while crossing the road during daylight hours. The impact killed the animal instantly. The rider, a resident of Koppa taluk, sustained injuries and is currently hospitalized. The motorcycle, valued at approximately Rs 12 lakh, has been seized by forest officials.
Authorities are preparing to book the rider under the Wildlife Protection Act. However, he has not yet been interrogated or formally identified by the forest department as he is still undergoing treatment.
Official Response
Deputy Conservator of Forests (Shivamogga Wildlife) Prasanna Krishna Patgar confirmed that the Sakrebailu Range Forest Officer has taken possession of the motorcycle. He stated, “The department will initiate a detailed investigation into the matter.” The DCF also noted that the leopardess had recently been captured on tiger census cameras, indicating its presence in the area.
While small animals are frequently killed in this region, the death of a leopardess has caused shock among wildlife enthusiasts and locals alike.
Activist Blames Poor Highway Management
Chirag, an activist from Rainland Trust, blamed the incident on inadequate highway management and the absence of safety measures for wildlife. He explained that the leopardess was likely crossing the road to access water from the Tunga River. The Sakrebailu area lies within the Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, where elephant movement is currently high.
Leopard Spotted on Camera in Separate Incident
In a related development, a leopard was captured on a mobile phone camera in Hasirumane village, under Agumbe gram panchayat. The video shows the predator picking up a farm chicken and walking away calmly in broad daylight. A villager attributed the presence of the leopard to the reckless disposal of dead chickens by a local poultry farmer, which has been attracting predators.
In response, the forest department is planning to install a trap cage in the area to capture the leopard and prevent further incidents.
