Bhubaneswar, Sept 26: The decomposed body of a leopard was discovered in a nullah within the Podhahal reserve forest, part of the Madhapur Range in the Boudh forest division, on Wednesday.

Forest officials reported that the leopard's carcass was located in a nullah deep inside the forest, with initial investigations indicating that it had died approximately 5 to 7 days prior. A scientific team, accompanied by Sanjay Kumar Swain, the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests for the Berhampur Circle, along with officials from the Boudh Forest Division, visited the site to conduct a thorough investigation.

“The animal underwent a post-mortem, and samples were collected for further examination. The exact cause of death will be determined once laboratory tests are complete,” stated a forest official.

According to Range Officer Asik Digal, “Ninety percent of the leopard’s body has decomposed, complicating the determination of the cause of death. However, since all vital organs are intact, poaching has been ruled out as a likely cause.” Digal added, “The post-mortem report will provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the leopard’s demise.”

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