Chumoukedima, Nagaland, April 6 (HBTV): The Wildlife Warden for Dimapur has issued an alert to the public of Chudi village in Wokha district about a leopard that was sighted and captured on a camera trap.     

An advisory from the Dimapur Wildlife division dated April 5 informed about a leopard that was recorded on camera. The animal is suspected to have been attracted by livestock in the village’s area, the Division stated.

‘Such movement is not completely unusual but calls for greater vigilance by the public,’ the authority stated.    

In this regard, the Division advised the public to avoid venturing out into the forests or secluded areas, or traveling alone especially after sunset. If moving out is unavoidable, it has to be in groups and with adequately bright torches, the statement said.

The people are asked to keep their livestock in robust enclosures at night and any unusual disappearance of livestock is to be immediately reported to the department.

The Division also advised the people to keep their surroundings devoid of waste and garbage as it attracts feral dogs and other livestock. This in turn attracts wild animals, the Division said.

The people are also asked to keep their immediate surroundings areas clear of thick grass and bushes. Likewise, they are to keep their residences well-lit at night. 

The division cautioned against heeding rumors and to avoid spreading any especially on social media.

The Division advised vigil and in case of sighting of the animal. They are advised not to approach or provoke it but report it immediately to the wildlife authorities. They may contact H Tokaho Kinimi, Wildlife Warden of the Dimapur Wildlife division at 8731821345 or Hukai Zhimo, officer in-charge, WLCCU of the Division at 8787890194. 

The department is aware of the matter and is taking all necessary steps, the wildlife Division stated.