Leopard Sightings Near Pune Airport Prompt Increased Wildlife Management Efforts

The Forest Department has enlisted assistance from Australian wildlife experts to address the situation.

A leopard was observed wandering near Pune Airport during late Saturday and Sunday nights when air traffic was minimal and the airport environment was quiet.

Footage captured by flashlight shows the leopard resting beside the road before slowly rising and disappearing into the darkness. This sighting occurs amid widespread flight disruptions including cancellations, delays, and crowded terminals.

Leopard sightings have become increasingly frequent in this region over recent months. In response, the Maharashtra Forest Department has deployed seven trap cameras throughout the airport area for monitoring purposes.

To effectively capture the leopard and resolve the situation safely, the Forest Department has requested expertise from Australian specialists who focus on wildlife crisis management.

These experts will employ advanced techniques and specialized methods to safely capture the leopard and relocate it to forest habitat.

These incidents are happening against a backdrop of increasing leopard attacks on humans. In response, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has recently approved Maharashtra's proposal to implement birth control measures for leopards in the state.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis noted that leopard attacks have resulted in fatalities in Pune district, which together with Ahilyanagar is home to approximately 1,300 big cats.

Recently, a leopard was spotted near residential zones in Junnar, Pune. Social media now features footage of a young man recording the leopard from inside his vehicle.

In the video, the man indicates that the leopard visits the same location daily, stating, "This leopard will now go to my house, look," while driving toward his residence. Shortly thereafter, the leopard was seen approaching the house.

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Several weeks ago, a leopard was detected roaming in a Pune residential area. The Forest Department initiated a comprehensive search operation utilizing thermal drones and other sophisticated equipment.