Leopard in Coimbatore? Forest Official Intensifies Surveillance

The Forest Department installed camera traps in the area of Thondamuthur near Coimbatore amid fears of a leopard attack, following the discovery of two goats killed under suspicious circumstances happened on July 11.

Thondamathur Wild Animal Attack:

Lately, in the vicinity of Thondamuthur, there have been terrifying incidents of attacks on villagers' goats leaving the villagers as they are unable to identify the predator responsible for these attacks. There is a strong possibility that the animal could be a leopard, adding to the anxiety of the villagers.

Goats Killed:

According to sources,  Parameswaram tied his two goats in his garage Wednesday evening and went home. The following morning when he went to release the goat, he saw the remains of the two goats, which were attacked by a carnivore. Then, he informed the incident to the forest department.

Forest Department Surveillance:

Forest officials in the Boluvampatti forest range have installed two camera traps in Vandikaranur near Thondamuthur, on the outskirts of the city to monitor any leopard activity. 

This is in response to a suspected leopard attack that resulted in the deaths of two goats. It is unusual for leopards to be in Vandikaranur, which is located three kilometers away from a reserve forest.

Officials Statement:

Yashwant Ambulkar, an IFS trainee leading the monitoring team, expressed surprise at leopard sightings near Vandikaranur, just three kilometers from a reserve forest. While acknowledging reports of wild dogs in the area, he emphasized the need for increased alert to prevent further human-wildlife conflicts.

"We are closely monitoring the situation and advising residents on safety measures," Ambulkar said. "Additional staff have been deployed to ensure the safety of locals and their livestock."

Residents have reported previous incidents of wild dogs from Thondamuthur forest attacking goats, prompting speculation about the recent killings. Forest Department officials are focused on gathering solid evidence to confirm whether a leopard is involved.

"We're aiming to obtain photographic or video evidence to definitively identify the predator," added Jayaraj, and there are ongoing investigations about the case.