Public warned as leopard spotted in Wokha district
The wildlife warden of Dimapur has issued a public advisory after a leopard was captured on a camera trap near Chudi village in Wokha district
The leopard caught on camera trap.
- DIMAPUR — The wildlife warden of Dimapur has
issued a public advisory after a leopard was captured on a camera trap near
Chudi village in Wokha district.
- The advisory dated April 5 stated that the leopard was
possibly attracted by the livestock in the village area.
- “Such movement is not completely unusual but calls for
greater vigilance by the general public,” it stated.
- Accordingly, the villagers have been advised to avoid
venturing into the nearby forest area/secluded areas or travelling alone,
especially after sunset; to move, if unavoidable, in groups and with adequately
bright torches.
- “To keep livestock secure in robust enclosures at night and
any unusual disappearance of livestock is to be immediately reported to the
department. To keep the surroundings devoid of garbage, as this attracts feral
dogs and other livestock, this in turn attracts the wild animals. The focus
should be on better garbage disposal and sanitation.
- “To keep your immediate surrounding areas clear of thick
grasses and bushes. To keep your residence areas well-lit at night. To avoid
giving heed to rumours and to avoid rumour-mongering, especially on social
media. To be vigilant, and in case of sighting of the wild animal, avoid
approaching or provoking the animal and report immediately to wildlife
authorities,” it added.
- Sightings can be reported to H Tokaho Kinimi, Wildlife
Warden, Dimapur, at 8731821345, and Hukai Zhimo, Officer-in-Charge, WLCCU,
Wildlife Division, Dimapur, at 8787890194.
- “The department is aware of the issue and is taking all
necessary steps. Therefore, the cooperation and support of the general public
and all concerned is solicited to help tackle the issue in an appropriate
manner,” it stated.
