Leopard cubs keep forest guards busy

SURAT, MAY 13: News with a difference from the Dangs. Forest guards are keeping vigil near a cave, just below the Sunset point in Ahwa, w...

SURAT, MAY 13: News with a difference from the Dangs. Forest guards are keeping vigil near a cave, just below the Sunset point in Ahwa, where a female leopard has given birth to three cubs.

The threesome, including two female cubs, were born a week ago in the cave, barely five feet below Sunset Point in the district headquarters. Cowboys grazing cattle nearby found them when they heard their voices.

They even dared to cuddle the little ones as their mother was not around. She did not visit the cave that night, probably sensing the human presence. The fear that she might attack human beings led forest officials to post guards there.

The mother returned the next night and disappeared in the jungles after suckling her young ones. This continued for a while before a male leopard disturbed the family. Officials believe he was there to attack the young ones.

The guards recount how ferociously the mother fought with the intruder, forcing him to beat a retreat. The next morning the guards entered the cavealong with a veterinary doctor who certified that all the cubs were safe.

The guards have been told to ensure the safety of the cubs should the male leopard venture again. Deputy Conservator of Forests (South Dangs) Ram Kumar had ordered the guards to fire in the air to scare away males.

According to Conservator (Surat Circle) Sureshchandra Pant the cubs will be able to run in less than a fortnight, after which they will follow their mother to the deep jungles to live in their natural habitat. For the time being though, forest guards are playing custodians.