CANACONA
Incidents of domestic animals reportedly killed by leopards have caused anxiety in Loliem village.
According to residents of Maxem-Loliem, leopards are on the prowl and have been targeting domestic animals, after straying into inhabited areas of the village.
They have claimed that domesticated animals like dogs, pigs, cattle and goats are being regularly attacked by leopards for the past several months.
When contacted, Maxem panch Santan Costa admitted that panic has struck locals in various parts of Loliem village.
“Their fears are justified, as several of their pets and domestic animals have gone missing in recent months. Many are convinced that this disappearance is due to the presence of leopards frequently being sighted in nearby forests,” said Costa.
“In one such incident, a shepherd found one of his goats had suddenly disappeared from his herd and a short while later, had heard some sound in a particular direction. He went there only to find the half-eaten carcass of his goat,” he added.
According to Costa, forest officials have been informed about the incidents.
“Residents are also aware that deforestation over the years may have compelled wildlife to stray into residential areas in search of prey,” admitted the panch.
One shepherd staying at Dapot plateau also complained that four of his goats had been taken away from the shed in the last 15 days.
