Puttur: Farmers in the Keyyuru village limits of Puttur taluk, already struggling with severe crop losses caused by wild elephants, are now facing an additional threat from wild bison (gaur) over the past few days. The fresh intrusion has heightened anxiety among agriculturists, who say repeated wildlife movement into farmlands is pushing them deeper into distress.
Villagers said herds of wild bison have been straying into agricultural fields across multiple areas, damaging standing crops and young saplings. The increasing presence of wild animals close to human habitations has also raised concerns about public safety, especially as sightings are being reported even during daytime hours.
Bison herds enter farmlands
According to residents, wild bison have been frequently seen moving through agricultural land in the Kaniyaru, Pallathadka, Ilanthaje, Kengudelu, Keyyuru and Balakka areas. Farmers cultivating areca nut, banana and coconut said the animals trampled and fed on young plants, resulting in significant losses within a short span of time.
Several farmers noted that areca nut saplings, which require years of care before yielding returns, were among the worst affected. Banana plants and coconut saplings were also destroyed, dealing a blow to both short-term and long-term farm income.
“After elephants, now bison have started entering our fields. We are not getting any relief,” a farmer from the area said, adding that constant vigilance during the night has become exhausting.
Wild boar threat worsens situation
Adding to the farmers’ troubles, villagers reported a noticeable increase in wild boar activity alongside the movement of bison. Wild boars have been damaging crops by digging up fields and destroying roots, further compounding the losses.
Farmers said that while elephants cause large-scale destruction in a single visit, wild boars and bison inflict sustained damage over several days, leaving fields unusable. The combined impact has made farming increasingly unviable in border areas close to forest land.
Daytime sightings raise safety concerns
Residents expressed alarm over sightings of wild bison along roadsides and near houses during daylight hours. Such behaviour, they said, indicates increased wildlife pressure and shrinking forest habitats.
Villagers fear that accidental encounters with bison, known for their aggressive behaviour when threatened, could lead to injuries or fatalities. Parents have also raised concerns about children travelling to schools and people commuting early in the morning or late in the evening.
“Seeing bison on the roadside during the day is frightening. It is not safe for pedestrians or two-wheeler riders,” a local resident said.
Repeated losses strain farmers
Farmers in the region have been facing recurring crop losses over the past few years due to wildlife intrusion. Many said they are yet to recover from damage caused by wild elephants, and the new threat from bison has further strained their financial stability.
Several farmers have invested heavily in fencing, solar lights and night patrols, but these measures have offered limited protection against large animals. With rising input costs and uncertain yields, villagers said continued losses could force some farmers to abandon cultivation altogether.
Call for urgent intervention
Villagers have urged the Forest Department and district administration to take immediate steps to address the issue. They have demanded measures such as reinforced fencing along forest borders, regular patrolling by forest staff and the use of early warning systems to alert residents about animal movement.
Farmers also stressed the need for timely compensation for crop damage. They said delays in assessment and payment often leave them without the means to replant or recover losses before the next season.
Local leaders have echoed these concerns, stating that unless long-term solutions are implemented, human-wildlife conflict will continue to escalate in the region.
Conclusion
The increasing intrusion of wild bison into farmlands has added to the growing challenges faced by farmers in the area, already burdened by elephant-related crop damage. With wildlife sightings becoming more frequent and moving closer to human settlements, residents say urgent and sustained intervention is needed to protect both livelihoods and public safety. Without effective mitigation measures, farmers fear that agriculture in these villages may become increasingly unsustainable.