Mangaluru, Feb 26: Concern has grown among residents after a leopard, previously seen on the outskirts, was recorded moving within city limits. CCTV footage captured the animal on Monday night near Doctors Lane in Kadri, prompting heightened vigilance in the neighbourhood. Notably, a wild bison had also strayed into the same area about two years ago.

The Forest Department has stepped up efforts to trap the animal and has installed a cage behind the Nagabana near 7th Cross in the Kaibattalu locality. As part of the operation, bait has been placed in a separate enclosure, and personnel have been deployed in three rotating teams to monitor the situation. Officials noted that leopards are largely nocturnal, and the strategy is focused on capturing it during its night-time movement.

Authorities added that the period from November to February coincides with the leopard breeding season, during which the animals tend to roam over wider areas. When they enter human settlements, they rarely stay in one spot and often shift locations in search of easy food sources, including stray dogs and improperly discarded meat waste. Residents have therefore been advised to avoid dumping food and meat waste in open areas.

Leopard sightings are frequently reported from surrounding regions such as Neermarga, Bajpe and Edapadavu, and officials suspect the animal may have wandered into the city while searching for food. They also pointed out that a leopard can travel nearly 15–20 kilometres in a single night and urged the public to remain calm, avoid panic, and stay cautious until the animal is safely captured.