Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur

Kundapur, Dec 26: Leopard sightings in residential areas on the outskirts of forests have been on the rise, causing growing concern among locals. Recent reports from Hombady Mandadi gram panchayat highlight increasing leopard activity in backyards, with these incidents becoming more frequent.

In the last five years, the forest department has captured over 15 leopards, including a rare black leopard. According to reports, "Eight leopards were caught in traps, 3 were rescued from wells, and 4 were saved after falling." Among these, a rare black leopard was also captured.

Leopards have been spotted in several areas, including Korgi, Tekkatte, Kodlaadi, and recent sightings in Hemmadi village, adding to the concern. Despite ongoing efforts, no leopards have been trapped in the last two years.

The increasing number of leopards entering human habitats has left residents fearful. "People are living in constant fear. Livestock and pet dogs are falling prey, and leopards have even been seen blocking vehicles," said local farmer Raghavendra Prabhu from Yedadi Matyadi. Children living near forest areas are hesitating to go to school due to the presence of leopards.

Experts attribute this shift in behaviour to food scarcity and habitat loss. “Leopards have difficulty finding food in their natural habitats due to deforestation and limited resources. This is pushing them towards human settlements,” said Raghavendra Nayak, RFO of Kundapura. Local farmers have called for more effective measures and better equipment to manage leopard captures.

The forest department continues to set traps in affected areas and is working to reassure the public, but the rising frequency of these invasions is causing significant concern.