Berhampur: The Forest department has confirmed the presence of a leopard in the Digapahandi and Chikiti forest areas of Ganjam district after drone camera footage captured the wild animal roaming inside the forest region.
According to forest officials, photographs and videos showing a big cat moving near Maa Ratanai Temple close to Jakar village under the Jakar Forest Beat in the Ratanai Reserve Forest had recently gone viral on social media, triggering concern among local residents.
Following the reports, Digapahandi Range Officer Divyaranjan Sahu and Forest personnel rushed to the spot around 11 PM and began monitoring the movement of the animal. Subsequent surveillance through drone cameras confirmed that the animal was a leopard.
Forest officials said the leopard reportedly hides near hill streams during the daytime and moves around the forest during the night in search of prey. The animal has been spotted roaming in the Digapahandi and Chikiti areas.
Officials said earlier reports had indicated no leopard presence in the Digapahandi Forest Range. Based on preliminary assessment, the leopard is suspected to have strayed from the Tamana Reserve Forest under the Berhampur Forest Division.
The Forest department stated that leopards generally prey on cows, goats, sheep and deer. Officials also cautioned residents that the animal could attack humans if it feels threatened or encounters people unexpectedly.
The department has intensified surveillance in the area and advised villagers living near forest fringes to remain alert and avoid venturing into forested areas during night hours.
