Video: Leopard spotted relaxing on a treetop outside forest in Telangana

Mulugu: Villagers of Kongala village in Wazeed mandal of Mulugu district spotted a leopard relaxing on a treetop about 2 km from the village close to the Kongala waterfalls in the forest area on Monday.

The forest officials immediately visited the spot but the leopard had left by then. They installed trap cameras in the surrounding area to capture its presence.

Confirming the presence of the leopard near Kongala village, district forest officer Pradeep Kumar Setty said the leopard is not a new spotting and it has been on record as a resident of the forest area for two or three years.

"It is good that we got visibility today. We are creating awareness among the villagers regarding the movement of the leopard. The forest officials concerned were directed to remain available in case of any need. We will also take the assistance of local police and revenue officials if needed. Most importantly, we will take all the required steps to see that there no man and animal conflict. Currently, the leopard has moved into the forest and there is no indication of movement near the village," the District forest officer said.

Meanwhile, the villagers were terrified as the word of the leopard being spotted spread and are choosing to remain indoors until they feel safe.