Solan/Shimla: Residents in parts of Solan and Shimla are facing renewed concern after leopards were spotted in populated areas, including near homes and a local shop. The incidents have highlighted the growing encounters between wildlife and people living close to forested stretches.
In Kun village of the Arki area in Solan district, a leopard entered the courtyard of a residential house. The animal was seen moving around the premises before eventually sitting in the courtyard. The unusual visit was recorded on a CCTV camera installed at the house.
According to locals, the leopard had reportedly been moving around the village for some time. Its entry into a residential property left the family and other villagers alarmed, particularly as the animal appeared to be looking for an opportunity to hunt.
A similar sighting was reported from Rirka village in Shimla’s Tutikandi area early Wednesday morning. At around 4:52 am, a leopard was spotted outside the Rameshwari General Store, where it remained for some time. The sighting during the early hours created anxiety among residents in the surrounding neighbourhood.
Leopard movement close to human settlements is not unusual in hilly areas where villages and residential colonies often lie near forested habitats. Wildlife experts say these animals may enter populated areas after dark or before sunrise while searching for food. Domestic dogs, goats, cattle and other smaller animals can attract leopards towards settlements.
Residents in areas witnessing such movement have been advised to exercise caution, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours. People are also urged not to approach or provoke a leopard if it is spotted and to immediately alert the concerned authorities so that the animal can be safely monitored and dealt with.
