SALEM: Forest department officials have launched a mission to trap a leopard that killed 10 goats in Kaligoundanur near Mecheri. The latest incident occurred on June 10, with the goats belonging to local farmer K Venkatesan (60).

This isn’t the first attack — over the past 10 months, the leopard has reportedly killed multiple goats and even a few cows in the area. Alarmed by the recurring incidents, villagers petitioned Danishpet forest range officers to intervene.

Forest staff confirmed the leopard’s presence by spotting fresh pugmarks during their visit. “A cage with a goat as bait has been placed, and 10 camera traps have been installed to monitor its movements,” said a forest official.

Residents have been advised to avoid venturing out at night and to keep their surroundings well-lit, which may deter the predator from entering human settlements.