Mysuru Forest Department Issues Advisory Following Leopard Sighting in Residential Area
Forest department officials in Mysuru issued a public advisory on Saturday, urging residents to remain calm and vigilant after a leopard was sighted in a residential area on the city's outskirts near Chamundi Hills. The three-year-old leopard was observed moving through the locality on Friday, though it did not attack any humans or animals. Despite the absence of aggression, residents reported feeling fearful following the encounter.
Officials Urge Calm and Caution
In response to the sighting, forest personnel have advised the public not to panic if they spot a leopard. This advisory comes in the context of previous wildlife incidents in Mysuru. Approximately three months ago, a leopard entered the premises of the police commissioner's residence, causing alarm among staff. After a thorough search and review of CCTV footage, which showed the animal entering and leaving independently, the area was declared safe.
Addressing False Alarms and Historical Context
Officials also cautioned against confusion and false alarms, citing a recent case where a reported leopard sighting near an apartment complex was later identified as a German Shepherd dog. Such incidents can divert critical time and resources during emergency responses, they emphasized. Residents have recalled similar sightings from about 15 years ago near RK Functional Hall in NR Mohalla and the Jockey Quarters area, where large crowds gathered, necessitating intervention by forest staff to ensure safety.
Leopard Rescue Efforts and Task Force Insights
Deputy Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) IB Prabhugouda, who leads the Mysuru–Mandya leopard task force, provided insights into local wildlife management. Over the past three years, 219 leopards have been rescued in the two districts, including one from Siddaratha Layout on April 17. Many of these animals were released back into forests, while others remain in care centers for ongoing observation and rehabilitation.
Current Status of Rescued Leopard
The three-year-old leopard rescued from a house in Siddaratha Layout in east Mysuru on Friday is currently under observation at the Chamundi Wildlife Conservation, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Koorgahalli. Forest officials have collected blood samples for testing to assess the animal's health and temperament. A decision on whether to release the leopard back into the wild or keep it in captivity will be based on these results. DCF Prabhugouda noted that the leopard appears normal and is eating well, but continuous monitoring will inform the final determination.
