Leopard Falls into Well in Kollam; Forest Department Conducts Rescue Operation

Kollam, Kerala: In a dramatic wildlife rescue operation, a leopard was successfully rescued from a deep well inside a residential premises in the Karavur area of Kollam district on October 10, 2025. The adult leopard had inadvertently fallen into the well in the morning, causing panic among the household members. The residents immediately alerted the Forest Department, who rushed to the scene to manage the situation.

Rescue operation

Forest officials arrived promptly and carefully assessed the situation. Given the confined space of the well, using a tranquilizer dart was deemed too risky, as it could have endangered both the animal and the rescuers. The team instead opted for a net-based capture strategy, ensuring minimal harm to the leopard.

The rescue operation lasted approximately four hours, requiring precise coordination and patience. Officials had to secure the animal’s head and limbs with nets to prevent it from injuring itself or anyone nearby. With careful lifting and monitoring, the leopard was finally pulled out safely and transported to a nearby forest station for medical evaluation.

Health and rehabilitation

Veterinarians at the forest station conducted an initial health check, assessing the animal for any injuries or stress-related conditions. Once cleared, the leopard is expected to be released back into its natural forest habitat. Forest authorities emphasized the importance of monitoring the animal post-rescue to ensure full recovery and reintegration.

Human-wildlife interaction

The incident underscores the increasing interactions between wildlife and human settlements, particularly in areas bordering forest regions. Such encounters, while often accidental, highlight the need for heightened awareness and preparedness among local residents. Authorities urged communities near forests to remain vigilant and report any animal sightings to prevent accidents.

This operation also demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated response by wildlife officials, combining skill, patience, and caution to protect both human lives and wildlife. The Forest Department plans to conduct awareness programs for local residents on safety measures when encountering wild animals.