In response to a series of leopard deaths caused by metal snares set by poachers to trap wild boars, the Goa Forest Department has taken action to safeguard these magnificent creatures. The department has instructed Deputy Conservators of Forests (DCFs) across the state’s divisions to develop a comprehensive protection plan to thwart poaching activities.

This directive involves mapping areas susceptible to threats and conducting regular night patrols, including collaborative efforts with the police. The Forest Department’s advisory was prompted by recent incidents, including the tragic death of a male leopard ensnared in Simepaine-Mangueshi in South Goa’s Ponda on October 11. An earlier incident occurred in June when a female leopard met the same fate in Petkem village, South Goa’s Dharbandora taluka. Following an investigation, the farm manager and supervisor were apprehended and charged under the Wildlife Protection Act. Another leopard suffered a similar fate in December 2022 on the outskirts of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, where it was ensnared by poachers targeting wild boars.

The advisory, issued by the Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) on October 16, emphasizes that DCFs should formulate a detailed patrolling plan at the range level, specifying the nature of threats. This plan should include a security map indicating risk levels in specific areas, intelligence gathering about poaching practices, and public awareness campaigns.

The advisory also mentions that Range Forest Officers should conduct regular patrols, with at least one foot patrol weekly, while ACFs and DCFs should engage in patrolling at least twice in a fortnight, including night halts in forested areas. It highlights the preference of poachers for full moon nights, suggesting that special vigilance should be maintained during these periods.

Notably, private property owners often employ metal snares on their property fences to protect against wild boars. Although these traps are intended for boars, leopards sometimes become entangled in them, leading to injuries and fatalities. The forest department emphasizes that there is no evidence to suggest that leopards are being poached for their body parts.

According to recent data, Goa’s forested areas are home to an estimated leopard population of around 86.

Officials acknowledge that a lack of personnel is a significant challenge in carrying out patrols effectively. In many cases, offenders claim ignorance about who set up the snares, making it difficult to establish accountability, and multiple cases are registered against ‘unknown’ individuals.