Murtaza Mushtaq
Handwara, Jun 26 (GNS): Wildlife Department authorities on Saturday captured a black bear from Tarathpora residential area, making it fourth such catch in less than twenty days across different Kupwara villages.
Reports reaching GNS said that the bear had strayed into Tarathpora residential area this afternoon and on being chased by some locals climbed atop a walnut tree. The wild beast didn’t budge despite efforts made by the locals there.
A wildlife team was informed, which reached the spot and tranquilised the beast.
Pertinent to mention here that black bears have been captured in areas including Zachaldara, Taratpora and Dolipora Villgam habitations in less than twenty days.
The locals said that the frequent presence of wild animals in residential areas has created a fear psychosis among the local residents.
They said that even now an untrapped bear is active in Lillam Villgam area, which according to them, has killed several livestock animals besides causing damaging to standing crops and orchards over the time.
A Wildlife official while talking to GNS said that the area has seen a steep rise in man-animal conflict over a considerable period now. “We are frequently receiving calls from various areas in the district regarding the presence of wild animals in residential areas”, he said adding that “With limited men and machinery we are facing lots of problems in dispensing our duties.” (GNS)
