Mangaluru: A leopard was spotted in the early hours of Monday near Doctors’ Colony close to the Kadri Manjunath Temple, triggering concern among residents of the densely populated locality. The animal was reportedly seen around 1 am on February 23 and its movement was clearly recorded on CCTV cameras installed in the area.
According to residents, the leopard was observed roaming in front of the main gate of Doctors’ Colony. The footage, captured by two separate CCTV cameras, shows the animal walking calmly along the road before disappearing into the darkness. Though the sighting occurred two days ago, news of the incident spread quickly within the neighbourhood, prompting discussions about safety and wildlife movement in the heart of the city.
CCTV footage confirms movement
Residents stated that the leopard did not appear aggressive and was not seen interacting with any people or domestic animals. No direct sighting by individuals has been reported so far, and there have been no incidents of attacks or property damage linked to the animal.
The locality around Kadri is largely made up of concrete structures, including large apartment complexes and villa-style houses. Except for a small patch of forested land above the Kadri temple area, there is very limited green cover. This has added to the surprise among locals, who question how the animal navigated through such a built-up environment.
A resident of Doctors’ Colony said that while stray dogs are present in the area, there is little natural prey available for a leopard. “It is surprising to see such a big wild animal in the middle of the city. We are worried about children and elderly residents stepping out early in the morning,” the resident remarked.
Pattern of wildlife sightings in the area
This is not the first instance of wild animals straying into this locality. Two years ago, a wild gaur was found wandering in the same neighbourhood. Forest officials at the time managed to safely drive the animal back into forested terrain through the Shaktinagar route without causing harm to residents or the animal.
Just a week ago, a smaller leopard was reportedly spotted in the Shaktinagar area, with CCTV footage again confirming its presence. The latest sighting near Kadri involves what residents describe as a larger leopard, raising speculation about whether multiple animals are moving through the urban fringes.
However, officials clarified that leopards are solitary animals and may cover large distances in search of food. There is no confirmation yet on whether the recent sightings in Shaktinagar and Kadri involve the same animal.
Forest Department response
Despite the circulation of CCTV footage, no formal complaint has yet been lodged with the Forest Department regarding the Kadri sighting. Officials said they are aware of the reports circulating on social media and local networks and are monitoring the situation.
A senior Forest Department official stated that leopard movement is relatively common during January and February. “This is the season when leopards venture out in search of food. In forest-fringe areas, they often prey on poultry and stray dogs. They are capable of travelling 15 to 20 km in a single night and usually do not stay in one place if there is no food source,” the official explained.
Authorities emphasised that unless the animal poses a direct threat or is injured, active capture operations are generally avoided. Leopards tend to retreat to safer areas if they do not find adequate prey or if human activity increases.
Concerns in core city areas
While leopard sightings are not unusual in forest-adjacent areas such as Bajpe and Neermarga, repeated appearances in core city localities like Kadri and Shaktinagar have raised concerns among residents. Urban expansion, shrinking green cover, and increasing human activity along forest fringes are often cited as contributing factors for such encounters.
Wildlife experts note that leopards are highly adaptable animals capable of surviving near human settlements, especially where stray dog populations are high. However, they generally avoid direct human contact.
Residents have been advised to avoid venturing out alone late at night or early in the morning, ensure proper lighting around residential premises, and report any fresh sightings immediately to the Forest Department. Pet owners have also been urged to keep animals indoors during night hours as a precautionary measure.
Vigilance urged, no panic
As of now, there have been no reports of injuries or livestock loss linked to the leopard sighting in Kadri. Forest officials have reiterated that there is no cause for panic but advised residents to remain vigilant.
The incident has once again highlighted the delicate balance between urban development and wildlife habitats in coastal Karnataka. With the leopard capable of covering significant distances overnight, officials believe the animal may already have moved away from the immediate locality in search of food.
For now, residents remain watchful, hoping the animal safely returns to forested areas without incident. Authorities have assured that any further sightings should be promptly communicated so that appropriate action can be taken if required.