A leopard sighted early Tuesday morning near Electronics City on the southern outskirts of Bengaluru sparked widespread panic among residents. The big cat was spotted crossing Hosur Road near the Electronics City toll plaza and heading towards the Nettur Technical Training Foundation (NTTF) grounds, creating alarm in the area.
Leopard Spotted at 3 AM
V. Ganesh, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Bengaluru South, confirmed the sighting, stating that the leopard was seen around 3 am crossing over the highway towards the NTTF premises. Despite extensive search efforts throughout the day, no further sightings of the animal were reported. The Leopard Task Force was deployed for combing operations, and officials remain on high alert.
Ganesh added, “We had received information about a leopard’s presence in the Jigani area for the last 10 days. The animal may have come from the Bannerghatta National Park side and entered Electronics City. CCTV footage was reviewed, but no trace of the leopard was found after the initial sighting.”
Past Incidents
The latest sighting recalls previous leopard encounters in the area. A senior official from NTTF noted that in 2023, another leopard was spotted near Kudlu Gate in the Singasandra limits of AECS Layout. The animal, which later died of bullet injuries after an intervention by forest officials, had also caused concern among residents.
In a separate incident on the same day, two leopards attacked the village of Madhugiri in Tumakuru district, killing 32 sheep. Forest officials visited the village to investigate, and local residents demanded compensation for their losses.
Safety Precautions and Community Concerns
Leopard sightings in Bengaluru, particularly on the city’s outskirts near forested areas like Bannerghatta National Park, have become increasingly common as urbanisation continues to encroach on wildlife habitats. The Bannerghatta region, home to a significant population of leopards and other wildlife, has experienced frequent human-wildlife conflict, with leopards occasionally wandering into residential areas.
Authorities have urged residents in and around Electronics City and nearby regions to remain vigilant. Schools and colleges in the area have been advised to take precautionary measures, and residents are encouraged to avoid venturing out alone, especially during the early morning and late evening hours when leopards are most active.
Ganesh reassured the public that the Leopard Task Force, equipped with forest officials and wildlife experts, is working to ensure the safe capture and relocation of the leopard. “Our priority is to protect both the leopard and the residents. We urge people to report any further sightings immediately to the forest department.”
Rising Leopard Sightings in Bengaluru
This incident adds to a growing list of leopard sightings in Bengaluru and its surrounding areas, raising concerns about wildlife management and habitat conservation. The forest department has been working to mitigate these conflicts by monitoring leopard movements and educating the public about safety measures.
Conclusion
While leopards are typically shy animals that avoid human interaction, the loss of habitat and the shrinking buffer between forests and urban areas have contributed to their increasing appearances in residential spaces. The latest sighting in Electronics City serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between Bengaluru’s expanding urban sprawl and its rich natural heritage.
Residents are advised to remain cautious and report any suspicious movements or wildlife sightings to the authorities for the safety of both the public and wildlife.