COIMBATORE: After a leopard was captured on CCTV near a grove in Kuppepalayam close to Devarayapuram, forest officials from the Boluvampatti range have stepped up efforts to monitor its movement. Ten pairs of camera traps have been strategically placed around the grove, which lies near the forest tri-junction of Coimbatore, Boluvampatti, and Madukkarai ranges.
The footage, widely shared on social media, created panic among locals. Though there have been no leopard attacks on domestic animals near the grove, forest staff are remaining vigilant.
“We believe the leopard may enter the area during early hours looking for easy prey,” said a forest official. “Since the grove is close to dense forest territory, we’ve deployed night patrols in addition to the cameras to avoid any conflict with humans.”
Officials suspect the animal might be moving between the Madukkarai and Boluvampatti ranges, referencing an earlier incident where a few goats were killed in the Mavuthampathi settlement.
“If the cameras reveal any predatory activity, we’ll consider placing a cage for safe relocation,” the official added.