Leopard Sighting Sparks Advisory in Nagaland’s Wokha District
In a bid to maintain public safety, the Nagaland Forest Department has issued a public advisory after a recent leopard sighting in the Chudi village area of Wokha district. According to a statement released by the department, the first report of the sighting was received on March 26, prompting authorities to install camera traps in the surrounding areas. A photo captured by a camera trap on March 29 at 12:56 AM shows the big cat, which is believed to have been attracted to the livestock in the village area.
The advisory urges residents to exercise increased vigilance, particularly after sunset, and advises against venturing into nearby forests or secluded areas alone. It also recommends that if movement is unavoidable, it should be done in groups and with adequately bright torches. The department has also emphasized the importance of keeping livestock secure in strong enclosures at night and reporting any unusual disappearance immediately.
The advisory further highlights the need for better garbage disposal and sanitation, as well as keeping immediate surrounding areas clear of thick grasses and bushes. This, it says, would help prevent the attraction of feral dogs and other animals, which in turn could draw in wild predators. Residential areas should also be well-lit at night, the advisory adds.
Residents are also cautioned against spreading rumors or misinformation, particularly on social media. In the event of a wild animal sighting, they should avoid approaching or provoking it and report immediately to wildlife authorities. The Nagaland Forest Department has listed the contact details of H Tokaho Kinimi, Wildlife Warden, Wildlife Division, Dimapur (+91 8731821345) and Hukai H Zhimo, Officer-in-Charge, WLCCU, Wildlife Division, Dimapur (+91 8787890194) for any urgent concerns.
The department has assured that it is aware of the situation and is taking all necessary measures to address the matter. It has sought the cooperation and support of the general public and all concerned to mitigate the risk posed by the leopard’s presence. The Dimapur Wildlife Division has jurisdiction over Wokha and five other districts in Nagaland.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/leopard-sighting-near-chudi-village-prompts-advisory-from-forest-dept
Category : Nagaland
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Publish Date: 2025-04-06 23:23:00
