In a successful rescue operation on Wednesday, forest staff in Shivamogga freed a wild bear from Danayakapura village in Holehonnuru, following a report from local residents who spotted the animal near the Kalabhairaveshwara Temple. The operation was led by Range Forest Officer Duggappa.
Forest officials suspect the bear was attracted to the village due to food leftovers at the temple. After the rescue, the bear was safely released into the Lakkavalli forest range, known for its sloth of bears that roam widely across the region.
Duggappa noted that while these bears usually stay within their natural habitat, they sometimes venture into human settlements in search of food. He urged villagers to be vigilant and report bear sightings. Experts, including Chirag from Rainland Trust, highlighted the growing human-wildlife conflict, advising residents to secure their trash and avoid leaving food outdoors, as bears have a keen sense of smell and are often drawn to food sources.
This is the second such incident in recent months; in August, a bear was similarly relocated to Lakkavalli forest.
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