Feline Mystique: Leopards Missing, But Social Media Fuels Panic with Wild Rumors 0

A leopard spotted on the outskirts of Hyderabad has sparked numerous rumors and unfounded reports, especially on social media, complicating the efforts of forest officials already anxious about the animal’s presence in populated areas.

Fanciful stories about the leopard, initially sighted near Chilukur, are circulating widely, instilling fear among residents around Gandipet.

Photos and videos of leopards from other locations are being shared in WhatsApp groups, often lacking authenticity. Although there were claims of two leopards seen near the Research Centre Imarat, a Defence facility in Balapur, investigations by forest authorities found no supporting evidence.

Recently, an image of a leopard on a rocky ledge was shared online as if it depicted the animal haunting the Gandipet area, allegedly taken by a villa owner. Upon checking, the owner denied spotting any leopard from their property.

Another video claiming to show a captured leopard in a cage with live bait went viral, but this too was revealed as an old clip, with forest officials denying any capture of the creature.

The leopard was first noted at the Telangana State Medicinal Plants Board nursery near Himayatsagar reservoir, with forest personnel finding pug marks confirming its presence. The sudden disappearance of stray dogs in Manchirevula village has heightened panic among residents of nearby gated communities like Kokapet and Narsingi.

“I keep checking the news to see if the leopard has been caught. While I can take precautions, it’s hard to control my teenage son who wants to go out at night,” said P. Rammohan, a local resident.

The feline was later captured on CCTV footage from Greyhounds, along with more pug marks, indicating its movements. Traces of its presence were also found in the Forest Trek Park in Chilkur, with videos showing the leopard crossing into the Artillery Centre in Golconda, causing further panic on site.

“We suspect the leopard has returned to Forest Trek Park due to the plentiful prey like wild boar,” a forest official said, speaking anonymously. Trap cages with live bait have been placed in various locations, but the leopard has yet to approach any.

“The leopard will likely seek live bait only when prey is scarce in its natural habitat. In the meantime, I urge people not to trust any unverified reports. The leopard cannot be captured without our knowledge,” the official added.