Tracking the Roam: Radio Collars for Jhalana Leopards

The Rajasthan Forest Department plans to fit leopards in the Jhalana Leopard Reserve with radio collars to monitor their movements. This initiative aims to prevent the animals from straying into nearby residential areas, enhancing rescue efforts during emergencies, and gathering data on their habitat and movement.

The Rajasthan Forest Department is taking proactive measures to manage the movement of leopards in the Jhalana Leopard Reserve. In response to multiple incidents of leopards venturing into residential areas, the department plans to equip the animals with radio collars.

According to Chief Wildlife Warden K C Arun Prasad, the collars will facilitate real-time tracking, enabling quick rescue operations and control actions during emergencies. Jhalana Reserve, home to over 30 leopards, is surrounded by urban settlements, leading to frequent animal movements into populated areas.

The initial phase of the initiative involves fitting GPS-equipped collars, sourced from a Bengaluru-based company, on leopards known to frequent urban vicinities. If successful, the trial may be expanded to cover other sensitive regions across the state.

(With inputs from agencies.)