Traps Set To Capture Vagrant Leopard In Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: A day after a leopard was spotted near the market area at Palaspalli near the Biju Patnaik International Airport, the Forest staff on Tuesday revved up their efforts to capture the big cat.

After failing to trace the leopard during the day time, the Forest staff and the tranquillizing team from Nandankanan placed three cages with a bait in each at different places to attract the animal.

“We have placed a goat and a hen in each cage to attract the leopard to fall into the trap. Besides, to track its movement, we have put up 10 trap cameras,” said Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Chandaka Wildlife Division, Kedarnath Swain.

The DFO said although the exercise to trace the leopard had begun in the morning by sealing the Old Airport Road and restricting vehicular movement, it was of no use as the leopard, known for its extraordinary camouflaging skill, kept away from the public eye.

“We are hopeful that the hungry leopard will come out of its hideout in the night and most likely try to kill its prey inside the cage,” he added.

The DFO further said that the people living in the locality have been advised to keep their doors locked and stay indoors at night.