Pune: Leopard Cub Reunited With Mother After Being Rescued From Sugarcane Farm
Manchar, 10th January 2024: In a heartwarming wildlife rescue operation, a leopard cub has been successfully reunited with its mother after being discovered near a sugarcane field in Nagapur, situated in the Manchar Forest Range. The 1.5-month-old cub was found by a vigilant farmer who promptly reported the sighting to the forest department, triggering a series of events that led to the cub’s rescue, treatment, and ultimate reunion.
The incident unfolded in Nagapur, where a female leopard cub was found near a sugarcane field, injured and in distress. The farmer, recognizing the need for immediate intervention, contacted the Maharashtra Forest Department, which promptly responded to the call for assistance. The leopard cub was transported to the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre – jointly run by Wildlife SOS and the Maharashtra Forest Department – for a comprehensive health assessment and treatment.
Veterinarians at the Wildlife SOS-operated rescue center identified the cub as a female, approximately 45 days old, with minor wounds and scratches on her paws. Additionally, she displayed signs of dullness and dehydration. Laser therapy was performed on the wounds, and ointments were applied to aid in the healing process.
After a day of attentive care, the leopard cub, now in improved health, was deemed ready for the crucial step of reuniting with her mother. She was carefully placed in a secure box within the field where she was initially found. Camera traps were strategically deployed in the vicinity to closely monitor the reunion process. To the joy and relief of all involved, the mother leopard made an appearance within an hour. She approached the box, assessed her cub, and without hesitation, gently picked her up by the scruff of her neck. The pair retreated into the surrounding wilderness, marking a successful reunion.
Dr. Akhilesh Dhage, Veterinary Officer at Wildlife SOS, shared insights into the treatment process, stating, “We focused on providing the cub with the necessary medical care, including fluid therapy to address dehydration and laser therapy for her wounds. After ensuring her good health, we returned to the field to initiate the reunion process.”
Sandesh Patil, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Junnar Division, said, “Upon receiving information about the cub’s presence in the sugarcane field, our team acted promptly to transport the cub to the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre for treatment. We are grateful for the collaborative efforts that led to the successful reunion, ensuring the well-being of the cub and its return to the wild.”
Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, commented, “This latest operation showcases the ongoing impact of our conservation endeavors. Each reunion contributes to the preservation of the leopard population in the wild, playing a crucial role in maintaining the delicate ecological balance. Wildlife SOS remains steadfast in its mission to protect and conserve the rich biodiversity of India, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between humans and leopards.”
