Leopard Found Dead in Balasore Forest, Probe Underway
Balasore (Odisha): A leopard was found dead early Tuesday morning in a protected forest near Kathagochi Panitanki under Nilgiri block, sparking concern among locals and wildlife officials.
Villagers first spotted the carcass and immediately alerted the forest department.
Nilgiri Ranger Manwar Khan and his team rushed to the site, securing the area as large crowds gathered.
Officials suspect the leopard may have strayed from Kuldiha or Similipal forests.
Preliminary observations point to natural causes or territorial conflict, though the exact reason remains unconfirmed.
Veterinary experts conducted a post‑mortem examination, and the final report is expected to reveal the actual cause of death.
The incident has drawn significant local attention, highlighting ongoing challenges in wildlife conservation across Odisha’s forest regions.
