Indore team rescues another leopard from snare

Leopard snaring incidents are increasing across Madhya Pradesh, with the latest case reported in the Kasrawad Range of the Khargone Forest Division, following similar cases in the Dhamnod-Bagh Range. A female leopard was found injured on Tuesday night after getting caught in a trap set by poachers in the forest. Upon receiving the alert, a rescue team from Indore reached the spot on Wednesday morning. After an hour-long effort, the team successfully tranquilized and rescued the leopard. Forest veterinarians treated the animal, and upon finding only minor injuries, recommended releasing her back into the wild. The leopard was later released in a forest area near Indore. The leopard was first spotted in an injured condition in a field near the village of Mathlai, which falls under the Khargone range. She remained seated in one place, prompting villagers to alert the forest department. Due to poor visibility at night, the rescue operation was delayed, and forest officials monitored the animal through the night while keeping curious villagers at a safe distance. Later Tuesday night, the rescue team from Ralamandal Sanctuary was informed, and by 5 a.m. on Wednesday, forest staff were en route to the location. Upon arrival, they found multiple traps laid in the area, one of which had ensnared the leopard. During the search, three separate traps were discovered. Rescue team member Sher Singh Katar tranquilized the animal using a dart gun. Within 15 minutes, the leopard was sedated and examined. She had sustained injuries to her leg due to the snare, making movement difficult. SDO Yohan Katara confirmed that after medical evaluation, the leopard was deemed fit for release. He added that the traps were allegedly placed by a local farmer to catch wild boars, which frequently damage crops in the region. Forest officials are expected to take further action against the illegal setting of traps, which poses a threat to protected wildlife species like leopards.

What is snaring?
Snaring is a method of hunting or trapping animals using a snare, a simple device typically made from wire, rope, or strong string that forms a noose. It tightens around an animal's body, leg, or neck when the animal moves through or pulls against it. Snaring is often used by poachers or farmers to catch wildlife such as wild boars, deer, or small mammals. However, it's indiscriminate and can trap non-target and protected animals like leopards, tigers, or even domestic pets, causing injury or death. That's why it's illegal in many places, especially in protected forest areas.