Leopard movement noticed across Sukhna sanctuary

Active movement of leopard and other wild animals has been noticed at multiple locations in the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary.

In view of the recent wildlife survey and the confirmed presence of leopards, jackals and other wild animals in the sanctuary, Saurabh Kumar, Chief Wildlife Warden, along with Anup Kumar Soni, Conservator of Forests; and Navneet Srivastava, Deputy Conservator of Forests; conducted a field inspection of the sanctuary yesterday.

During the inspection, the team visited various locations where leopard movement has been recorded through camera traps and field observations by frontline staff. The team also inspected several water bodies and assessed the habitat conditions for migratory birds within the sanctuary.

The inspection revealed the presence of leopard and other wild animal activity at multiple locations inside the sanctuary, corroborated by camera trap images and pugmark evidence, indicating active movement across the forest area. “Such presence is natural and reflects a healthy forest ecosystem,” said Saurabh Kumar.

“However, keeping in view the safety of the general public as well as wildlife, the Forest Department is preparing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), in consultation with the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, for visitor management in the sanctuary and other related matters,” said Saurabh.

He said the SOPs would include various precautionary and wildlife management interventions such as installation of “Dos and Don’ts” awareness boards and warning signage at strategic locations inside and outside the sanctuary, highlighting the presence of leopards, sambar, jackals and other wild animals along with safety guidelines.

Local villagers and residents of nearby areas to animal behaviour and necessary precautionary measures would be carried out.

He said the Forest Department was carrying out regular monitoring and all necessary measures were being taken to ensure public safety while maintaining wildlife conservation priorities. He advised the visitors to cooperate fully and follow the prescribed guidelines in letter and in spirit, and to avoid venturing into restricted areas.

People can report any wildlife sighting or emergency in the sanctuary on the dedicated helpline number 0172-2700217.