Jaipur, Jan 18 (IANS) A leopard entered a heritage hotel here on Thursday morning, creating panic among the inmates who rushed out in a frenzy.

The incident was reported from the Kanota Castle at 9.40 a.m..

At that time, dogs present in the hotel suddenly started barking and did not stop despite the best efforts of the hotel staff to calm them down. A tourist there saw the leopard and informed the hotel staff and hotel owner Man Singh immediately informed the Forest Department.

During this entire incident, the tourists ran out of the hotel. The prowling leopard also entered the hotel staff room and created havoc there even as some people closed the door of the room from outside.

A Forest Department team reached the spot and after one and a half hour of hard work, succeeded in tranquilising the big cat, leading to hotel staff and tourists heaving a sigh of relief.

Bassi Ranger Prithviraj Meena said acting on an information about the leopard entering the hotel, their team, along with one from Jaipur Zoo, reached the spot. There was no loss of life or injury in this entire rescue operation.

"At present, the leopard has been taken to Nahargarh Rescue Centre, where after first aid, it will be released into the forest once again."

Rajkot : Fear has gripped residents of Rajkot city and surrounding areas as reports of leopard sightings continue to surface. In the past few days, confirmed sightings have been reported not only within the city limits but also in nearby towns like Jasdan, Dhoraji, and Jetpur. Adding to the concern, the Forest Department has estimated the presence of as many as 40 leopards within the Rajkot district.

Unnerving Encounters:

The first alarm bell rang on December 22nd, 2023, with reports of a leopard sighting within the Rajkot University campus. The Forest Department immediately swung into action, forming investigation teams to comb the area. While concrete evidence of a leopard's presence in the university hasn't been found, subsequent sightings in Jasdan, Dhoraji, and Jetpur confirmed the suspicion. The total number of reported sightings has now climbed to 40, raising concerns about the safety of residents and wildlife alike.

Taking Precautions:

In response to the escalating situation, the Forest Department has deployed five cages at strategic locations. These cages aim to capture and relocate any leopards found wandering near human settlements. Additionally, departmental teams are actively patrolling and monitoring vulnerable areas, remaining vigilant for any further sightings.

Living in Harmony:

The presence of leopards in close proximity to human settlements highlights the need for coexistence between humans and wildlife. While the fear of encountering these powerful predators is understandable, it's crucial to remember that leopards generally avoid interaction with humans. Following guidelines issued by the Forest Department, such as remaining vigilant after dark and avoiding venturing into forested areas alone, can minimize the risk of encounters.

Educating residents about leopard behavior and encouraging responsible actions can foster a sense of respect and understanding for these magnificent creatures. By promoting peaceful coexistence, both humans and leopards can thrive in their shared habitat.

Amreli, Oct 29 (IANS) A five-year-old girl was killed by a leopard in Gujarat's Amreli district, said local authorities here on Sunday.

The incident took place on October 28, officials said. The victim was identified as the daughter of agricultural labourers residing in the area.

According to Jyoti Vaja, the forest officer, the girl was playing when the leopard suddenly pounced on her.

Her parents and others present at the scene raised an alarm, prompting the leopard to release its grip and flee. Despite immediate efforts to seek medical help, the girl succumbed to severe neck injuries sustained during the attack.

Amreli district has experienced a series of fatalities due to leopard attacks in recent times. On October 14, a woman lost her life in Wadala village, located in the Talala taluka of the district.

Gujarat, as a whole, has witnessed a noticeable surge in its leopard population.

According to the latest census data from the forest department, the state's leopard count stood at 2,274 in 2023. This represents a substantial 63 per cent increase from the 2016 figures, which recorded 1,395 leopards in the region. 

Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh), June 22 (IANS) A five-year-old child was critically injured in a leopard attack on the Alipiri footpath on Thursday.

The leopard dragged the child into the bushes but left him and escaped after security personnel posted there raised an alarm.

The child, who was bleeding profusely, was shifted to the Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences hospital. His condition is said to be critical.

The incident occurred near the Prasanna Anjaneya Swamy temple at the seventh mile on Tirumala walkway. The footpath leads to the Tirumala temple.