A wild female leopard which had sneaked into the BEML compound premises and was struggling to extricate itself from the iron spikes which had pierced its right limb and abdominal region, was tranquillised and rescued by the Forest Department on Monday.
The incident came to light around 7 a.m. when a few passersby and the security personnel of the BEML factory — located on the Hootagalli-KRS Road on the outskirts of the city — noticed the wild cat perched on top of the railings. On closer observation it was found that though the leopard was growling in fury, it was unable to leap beyond the iron spikes and there were traces of blood.
On information, Deputy Conservator of Forests Gaonkar, Assistant Conservator Durgegowda and other staff reached the spot around 7.30 a.m. by when the leopard was found dangling with its head down and making unsuccessful attempts to extricate itself from the iron spikes.
Veterinarians who accompanied the Forest Department staff fired a tranquilliser from close range and as soon as it took effect, threw a net around the leopard, put it in a cage and shifted it to the veterinary hospital in Mysore.
A team of veterinarians led by Dr. Suresh examined the four-year-old leopard. The doctors administered fluids to the animal as it was stressed out, gave it antibiotics and stitched up the wound which was about three to four inches deep.
Speaking to The Hindu Dr. Suresh said the leopard had sustained injuries on its right limb and close to the abdominal portion but there was nothing to worry.
There was not much bleeding or fracture of the limbs and hence the animal was expected to make a quick recovery, he added.
Incidentally, it is the second leopard being trapped in the BEML premises in recent months and factory personnel believe at least two more leopards have found sanctuary in the vast precincts of the factory which has a dense vegetation cover, said Mr. Durgegowda.
The leopard was subsequently shifted to the Bannerghatta animal rescue centre in Bangalore. Once the animal recovers, a decision will be taken on its relocation, Mr. Durgegowda added.
