Sixth leopard rescued in 30 days as floods drive wildlife toward villages

A full-grown male leopard was safely captured by the forest department in Bahraich's Katarniyaghat Wildlife Division on the night of August 19, 2026, marking the sixth such rescue in the region over the past 30 days. The big cat, estimated to be 8-9 years old and weighing approximately 45-50 kilograms, was trapped in a cage set up by officials at Dhodhepurwa Pachsa Bezha village under the Kakraha Range at 11:50 pm. The animal has been shifted to a secure location where veterinarians conducted an initial health examination, and further action is being taken as per protocol.

The surge in leopard sightings and rescues is directly linked to the rising water levels of the Ghaghara river, which is currently flowing 37 centimeters above the danger mark, creating flood-like conditions across the division. As water levels continue to rise, wildlife from forested areas are increasingly moving toward human habitations in search of safe shelter, heightening the risk of human-animal conflict. In response, the forest department has been placed on high alert, with round-the-clock patrolling teams deployed in sensitive zones to monitor wildlife movement and ensure the safety of both animals and local communities.

Authorities have launched intensive awareness campaigns urging villagers to exercise extreme caution during the monsoon season when dense vegetation provides ideal cover for big cats. Residents have been advised to avoid venturing into fields alone, especially during early morning or late evening hours, and to move only in groups of four to five people while making noise to alert animals of their presence. Special emphasis has been placed on keeping children indoors during vulnerable hours and clearing bushes around homes that could serve as hiding spots for wildlife.

The forest department has reinforced its commitment to protecting both human lives and wildlife during this critical period. Additional personnel have been stationed in low-lying areas prone to flooding, and emergency rescue teams remain on standby. Officials have appealed to the public to immediately report any wildlife sightings to the nearest forest post rather than attempting to handle situations themselves or gathering crowds, which could provoke dangerous encounters.