Wildlife SOS, Maharashtra Forest Department rescue leopard after highway accident

As a result, the injured leopard became extremely agitated due to the hue and cry caused by the public. The rescue team assessed the situation and successfully tranquilised the frightened animal using a dart gun. The leopard, estimated to be 5 years old, was placed in a cage and transported for immediate medical care, an official statement said on Tuesday.

Wildlife SOS, in collaboration with the Maharashtra Forest Department, rescued an approximately six-year-old male leopard from the Pune-Nashik highway after he met with a life-threatening accident.

After quickly assessing the situation, the team successfully tranquilised the… pic.twitter.com/X0de8Lv66b

— Wildlife SOS (@WildlifeSOS) January 29, 2024

Once at the leopard rescue facility, the feline underwent a thorough examination, which revealed serious head trauma, a broken mandible, and broken canines and incisors. The big cat is currently receiving supportive therapy, oral medication and antibiotics, and despite being in a state of lateral recumbency, it is eating well.

Dr Chandan Sawane, Veterinary Officer at Wildlife SOS, stated, “The leopard’s injuries were severe, including a broken lower mandible and fractures in both canines and incisors. Our immediate focus is on providing necessary medical care and support for its recovery. We are also providing him with the necessary feed for his ease.”

Amit Bhise, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Junnar Division, said, “Timely response by Wildlife SOS and Junnar Forest Division was crucial in saving the animal. Coordination of the two teams ensured a better outcome for the animal and underlines the importance of quality veterinary care.”

Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, highlighted, “The incident throws light on the harsh reality of damage to wildlife due to road accidents, all a consequence of an expanding urban landscape. As habitats shrink and highways keep cutting through the natural habitats of these animals, risk of such incidents will keep increasing. Wildlife SOS is committed to addressing challenges of infrastructure expansion and to providing immediate assistance to wildlife in distress.”