Leopard Found Hanging From Tree in Odisha; Forest Dept Probes
Investigators were confronted with an unusual scene, as a large stone was also found hanging close to the leopard's body: Reports
BHUBANESWAR: A leopard was found hanging from a neem tree under mysterious circumstances in Odisha's Ganjam district on Tuesday, prompting the forest department to launch an investigation into the protected animal's death.
The carcass was spotted near Jarada Chhak under Kabisuryanagar after local residents noticed it suspended from the tree and alerted forest officials.
Investigators were confronted with an unusual scene, as a large stone was also found hanging close to the leopard's body. The discovery has deepened the mystery surrounding the incident and raised questions about whether the animal died naturally, accidentally, or under suspicious circumstances.
Forest officials said it is too early to determine how the leopard ended up hanging from the tree. Authorities are examining multiple possibilities, including whether the animal climbed the tree before its death or whether the carcass was brought from elsewhere and suspended from the tree.
Officials are also investigating the significance of the stone found near the carcass, including whether it was used to weigh down the body or is otherwise connected to the incident.
A forest department team reached the spot soon after being informed and began collecting evidence. The carcass will be sent for a post-mortem examination, the findings of which are expected to help establish the exact cause and circumstances of the leopard's death.
Forest officials said all possible angles, including suspected human involvement and accidental death, are being examined. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
