Over the weekend residents of Dhotre village — which falls under the Takli Dhokeshwar Forest Range in Maharashtra — were in for a shock as they spotted an adult leopard napping on the side of a highway. It was probably resting after feeding.

Concerned about their safety, the residents immediately informed the Forest Department who alerted the Wildlife SOS team at the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre.

The rescue teams on their arrival found more than 300 villagers at the spot. The authorities swung into action and secured the area to keep the people safe. Following this, the Wildlife SOS veterinarian tranquilised the big cat. It was male and was approximately six years old.

The leopard is at present under the care of the Forest Department.

Talking about the operation, Dr. Chandan Sawane, Veterinary Officer, Wildlife SOS said: “Such rescue operations are highly sensitive and need careful planning to ensure the safety of the animal and the crowd. We were able to provide an effective and timely intervention with the help of the Forest officials.”