Badly injured leopard saved by alert farmer in Maharashtra

A farmer residing in Pimpalgaon Joga village in Maharashtra’s Pune district, was shocked when he came face-to-face with a leopard in his agricultural field. He found the animal making its way into his farm and settling down by the side of the highway.

Concerned about the safety of the animal and others, he immediately informed the Maharashtra Forest Department, who in turn alerted the Wildlife SOS team stationed at Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre in Junnar.

The rescue team reached the spot travelling 35 kilometres armed with the necessary rescue equipment such as safety nets, trap cage and protective gear. Along with the Forest Department officials, the team first secured the area.

After a four-hour-long operation, the leopard was tranquilised by the Wildlife SOS veterinarian. The animal was found to be have suffered a limb injury and is currently under medical observation at the Centre.

Sharing details about the operation, Dr. Chandan Sawane, Veterinary Officer, Wildlife SOS said: “The leopard was nestled amidst the shrubs so our team had to borrow the assistance of a JCB excavator machine so that we could mount it to get a clear view. After securing the animal, we discovered that it was a male, approximately 6 years old. Further examination revealed that its right forelimb appears to be fractured, possibly from a vehicular collision. The leopard is currently being stabilised with painkillers and fluid therapy, and further treatments will be carried out depending on its condition.”