Female leopard cub rescued and reunited with mother the same day in Maharashtra
During the sugarcane harvest season, the meowing of leopard cubs in the fields is a common sound.
Nature conservation: In an exciting wildlife rescue operation, a female leopard cub was successfully reunited with its mother after she was found near a sugarcane field in Waghale village, located in the Shirur Forest Range of Maharashtra. The cub, estimated to be almost two months old, was discovered by a vigilant farmer who immediately notified forest rangers, setting off a chain of events that led to the cub’s rescue, treatment and eventual reunion by Wildlife SOS and Junnar forest department.
During the sugarcane harvest season, the meowing of leopard cubs in the fields is a common sound. In a recent incident that occurred in Waghale village on Sunday, a female leopard cub was found in distress in a sugarcane field. The farmer, realizing the need for immediate intervention, contacted the Maharashtra Forest Department, which quickly responded to the call for help.
After being informed by the forest department officials, the teams of Wildlife SOS and Junnar forest division, along with the veterinarians, traveled nearly 70 km to reach the rescue site. After an extensive health assessment, the team identified the cub as a female, almost 2 months old, with minor wounds and scratches on her paws. In addition, she showed signs of dullness and dehydration.
Dr. Sharing insights into the cub’s treatment, Adithyan N, Wildlife SOS Veterinary Officer said: “We focused on providing the cub with the necessary medical care, including fluid therapy to address dehydration and ointments in the form of topical medication for the wounds. After ensuring her good health, we carefully placed the cub in a safe box and immediately started the reunion process.”
Camera traps were strategically deployed in the area to closely monitor the reunification process. To the joy and relief of all involved, the mother leopard appeared that same evening. After assessing the area, she approached the crate, identified her cub and gently lifted her by the scruff of the neck. The heartwarming moment was caught on camera and the pair retreated into the wilderness, marking a successful reunion.
Amit Bhise, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Junnar Division said, “We are happy that the joint efforts resulted in the timely treatment and successful reunion of the cub with its mother. As it is the sugarcane harvesting season, we urge all farmers to inform local forest rangers if they see leopard cubs. This will ensure the well-being of the cub and its return to the wild.”
Kartick Satyanarayan, co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS said, “The quick initial response of the local farmer and the subsequent efforts of Wildlife SOS and the forest department show the impact of joint efforts. Each reunion contributes to a healthy leopard population in the wild and plays a crucial role in maintaining the delicate ecological balance in the natural environment of that area.”