In yet another incident of human-wildlife conflict near Bengaluru, a leopard entered a residential property in Soladevanahalli, Tumakuru Road, during the early hours of Sunday and carried away a pet dog. The incident, captured on CCTV, has left residents in a state of panic.
The leopard reportedly entered the compound of Bailappa’s house, pounced on the sleeping dog, and escaped within minutes. This marks the second leopard sighting in the area within days, following the rescue of another leopard near Nelamangala by forest officials.
Residents expressed anger and concern over the forest department's inability to address the recurring issue, as per a report on Times of India. A local said that the officials come, survey the area, and leave without offering any concrete solutions.
The fear has intensified due to the proximity of educational institutions, student accommodations and orchards, making the area vulnerable to nocturnal wildlife activity.
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The forest department has assured locals that patrolling efforts have been intensified. However, the incident highlights the growing conflict between humans and wildlife in the urban fringes of Bengaluru, possibly driven by habitat encroachment and the leopards' search for prey.
Authorities have been urged to take swift and effective action to mitigate risks, including setting up traps, relocating the animal, and raising awareness about safety precautions.
Last week, a leopard was sighted near a residential area at Turahalli Forest in Banashankari area of the city. The big cat was seen on a rock near Sobha Forest View Apartment. The incident came to light, after a video of the leopard spotting was shared on Resident Welfare Association's WhatsApp group.