Leopard population faces threat despite boom in Dhenkanal

The number of leopards in the Dhenkanal forests has surged, doubling over the past three years to reach over twelve. This marks a remarkable success for conservationists and local wildlife authorities. Initially, in 2021, the region was home to approximately six leopards.

Despite this positive trend, the local forest department now faces escalating threats, including tragic incidents of poaching and tiger deaths. Within recent months, two tigers have succumbed to poachers’ traps, raising alarms over the security of these majestic creatures.

A particularly disturbing incident occurred in the Hindol-Koi Reserve Forest, where a leopard met its end in an electric snare set by poachers. A similar fate befell another tiger in the Dudurkot village forest. The rise in poaching incidents has prompted concern from authorities keen to preserve this growing population.

In a separate incident at the Mahabir Road range, near the Dhenkanal and Keonjhar border, a leopard was found ensnared in a wire trap laid by poachers, and rescued in critical condition. The absence of clear leads in the ongoing investigation highlights the challenge of protecting these animals.

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Conservationists have criticised the current patrolling and protection measures as inadequate. Without robust security interventions, experts fear the sustainability of the tiger population remains jeopardised. The District Forest Officer of Dhenkanal assured that measures are being intensified, including stern actions against poachers and initiatives aimed at safeguarding the tigers.

“Though the number of leopards has increased in Dhenkanal forests, incidents of poaching have also increased considerably due to demand in the international market. Forest Department has utterly failed to nab the poachers so far,” rued Debabrata Patnaik, a wildlife lover in the area.

“We have made a detailed analysis in the last five-six months through camera traps. Following the analysis, we have received promising data about the leopard population in the district. The Forest Department officials have been patrolling during the day and night. We have been using AI-monitored camera traps and specific drones to curb poaching,” said Dhenkanal DFO Sumit Kar.